Mickey Mantle 1951 Bowman Card Value Guide
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The 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card (#253) has experienced significant appreciation over the past year. Notably, a PSA 9 graded card sold for $300,000 in August 2023, and a PSA 8 graded card sold for $63,000 in August 2023. (gradedcardinvestor.com) This upward trend reflects growing collector interest and the card's enduring status as a baseball icon.Price Table
Below is a table summarizing the 30-day average sale prices for the 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card (#253) across various grades:| Grade | 30-Day Average Sale Price |
|---|---|
| PSA 10 | $3,000,000 |
| PSA 9 | $300,000 |
| PSA 8 | $63,000 |
| PSA 5 | $28,310 |
| PSA 4 | $24,800 |
| PSA 2.5 | $13,400 |
| PSA 2 | $14,400 |
| SGC 3 | $17,500 |
12-Month Trend Summary
Over the past 12 months, the 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card has seen a consistent increase in value, particularly in higher grades. The PSA 9 card's value has risen from approximately $250,000 in early 2023 to $300,000 in August 2023. Similarly, the PSA 8 card's value increased from around $50,000 to $63,000 in the same period. This upward trajectory indicates sustained demand and the card's status as a premier collectible. (gradedcardinvestor.com)Most Valuable Cards & Key Investments
PSA 10 Graded Card:
The pinnacle of the 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card, a PSA 10 graded card, is extremely rare and has been valued at approximately $3,000,000. (baseball-trading-cards.com)PSA 9 Graded Card:
A PSA 9 graded card sold for $300,000 in August 2023, reflecting its high demand and value among collectors. (gradedcardinvestor.com)PSA 8 Graded Card:
A PSA 8 graded card sold for $63,000 in August 2023, indicating strong interest in well-preserved examples. (gradedcardinvestor.com)Population Report + Scarcity Commentary
The PSA population report indicates the following distribution for the 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card: - PSA 10: 1 card - PSA 9: 9 cards - PSA 8: 53 cards - PSA 7: 1,000+ cards - PSA 6: 2,000+ cards - PSA 5: 3,000+ cards - PSA 4: 4,000+ cards - PSA 3: 5,000+ cards - PSA 2: 6,000+ cards - PSA 1: 7,000+ cards The scarcity of high-grade examples, particularly PSA 10 and PSA 9, significantly enhances the card's value. Collectors often prioritize these rarer grades, leading to higher demand and prices. (baseball-trading-cards.com)Upcoming Competition or Player Bio
Mickey Mantle, known as "The Mick," was a legendary center fielder for the New York Yankees from 1951 to 1968. Over his 18-year career, he achieved: - 3 American League MVP awards (1956, 1957, 1962) - 7 World Series championships (1951, 1952, 1953, 1956, 1958, 1961, 1962) - 536 career home runs - 20-time All-Star selection Mantle's impact on the game and his enduring popularity contribute to the high demand for his rookie card.Buy / Sell / Hold Outlook
Given the consistent appreciation in value and the card's historical significance, the 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle rookie card remains a strong investment. Collectors should consider acquiring well-preserved examples, particularly in higher grades, to capitalize on potential future appreciation.
FAQs
How accurate are these values?
These estimates are based on recent sales data and PSA population reports.
What are the best brands to invest in for long-term value?
Bowman Chrome 1st autos (prospects), Topps Chrome RCs (rookies), Panini Prizm parallels.
How do I know if my card is worth grading?
Check for centering, corners, edges, and surface quality; higher grades yield better value.
What does PSA 10 mean?
PSA 10 is Gem Mint—virtually perfect with no visible imperfections.
Why do some cards have refractor or parallel versions?
Refractors and parallels are special print variations—often shinier or colored—that are produced in smaller quantities, making them more collectible and valuable.
How often should I check card prices?
Markets shift quickly, especially during player call-ups, hot streaks, or playoff runs. Checking weekly—or even daily for prospects and stars—helps you stay on top of trends.
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Methodology & Ethics
Data sources — Goldin Auctions closing prices, eBay Terapeak analytics, and PSA Auction Prices Realized.
Sampling window — We analyse the latest 90 days of public sales. A grade appears in our tables only when at least three verified transactions exist for that grade.
AI-grading disclaimer — MarketSnap’s grade suggestions are algorithmic and should be verified by a professional grader before you buy, sell, or submit a card.
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