This Bowman high-number-series card is considered as Mickey Mantle's 'true' rookie card, as it came out a year before the first Topps card. As Mantle's many seasons progressed since the printing of this card, the importance of this card would continue to command notice by collectors and especially by investors who quickly recognized the profit potential that would always surround this popular issue. The high grade examples such as this one are especially the target of investors as they never seem to have much of a shelf life. All the speculating aside, this is a majestic card. Its rich color is absolutely unblemished by any unwanted printing blemishes which are so often associated with this issue. The registration is also stunning due to its precise strike, again uncommon for the issue. I am hard-pressed to identify any liability harnessing this card from a loftier grade. Perhaps the illusion of the faintest hint of a wax stain on the reverse has kept it from the hallowed ground of a 'Mint 9'. In all, this rookie rendering of Mickey Mantle is a technical triumph in preservation, and an asthetic joy to behold. Impressive Near Mint to Mint Plus-Virtually Mint-condition!