Opinions on this Mantle signature please

[budob]

Jeff and I have had this signed card in our collection for 20+ years but can't recall how it came to us - definitely not signed in our presence. Opinions please on the authenticity of the signature.... greatly appreciated.

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/a...e60tsigned.jpg



closeup: http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/a.../mantlesig.jpg


Thanks,
Bud Obermeyer

[canjond]

Here's a similar one for comparison....

[budob]

thanks Jon. I've looked at several others as well, but I do not have personal expertise on Mantle's signature (or anyone elses for that matter). Still looking for informed opinions on this one.... much appreciated.

[timzcardz]

Hey Bud,

I am certainly not an expert, but I don't recall ever seeing the end of the "e" on Mantle hook upward before.

Hopefully someone else more qualified can give you a better idea.

[GoldenAge50s]

Good point on that last "e" Tim!

[Beatles Guy]

Mine actually stops pretty short, no hook. I watched him sign this, so I know it's legit

[Fuddjcal]

Hi Bud,

Not really a Mantle Expert, but a lowly collector who has looked at 1000's of Mantle's. In regards to your sample, there are some things I like about the auto and many I don't. It is for the reasons I don't like it that I wouldn't be a buyer for it. It doesn't mean It's not authentic, it just doesn't meet Fudd’s ridged 10 point system It would score about a 5. For example....I only purchase 10's!!!Definately not a dime store copy forgery and could be real????

It gets minus points for the "ck", the "Ma" as well as their relationship, the "n" and the "tle". Possible minus points for going just outside of the sweet spot of the photo and overall baseline of "Mantle" is too erratic for my tastes.

[Mr. Zipper]

I'm certainly no expert, but I have my doubts about this signature.

The baseline seems a bit wavy. Slant is inconsistent throughout the signature. Appears slowly drawn with none of the indicators of a fast signature (as was Mick's tendency).

[yanksfan09]

Yeah, I have some doubts too. The N seems funny and I don' think I've seen that hook on the last E before. I don't claim to be an expert, but I'm on the fence on that one. It could be real, but I'd have a few reservations which would make me stay away.

Sometimes, with certain examples, I think no one can tell either way with 100% certainty.

(With Mick, it's always possible he was half in the bag at the time too...)

[budob]

Thanks to all for your insights!

Thanks Tim for the bump!