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How to Spot a Fake Mickey Mantle Rookie Card

Mickey Mantle baseball cards -- especially his rookie card -- are highly collectible baseball memorabilia. The 1952 Topps rookie card is the most valuable of all the Mantle cards and could be worth as much as $30,000 to a collector if it's in mint condition. Because of the cards' value, they are also prone to being duplicated or faked. An non-certified card or one without proper documentation is a warning sign that the card may not be authentic. You should properly research Mantle's New York Yankees memorabilia before making a purchase.

Things You'll Need

Photos of real Mantle cards
Computer

Instructions

- 1
  Research the specifications on authentic Mickey Mantle cards on the Internet or with collectors.
- 2
  Check the card's label. The label on the card should say Bowman 1951, Bowman 1952 or Topps 1952 on an authentic card.
- 3
  Evaluate the coloring on the card. If the card appears faded or the colors or image fuzzy, this could be a sign that the card was photocopied, a clear fake.
- 4
  Evaluate the amount of wear on the card. A card from the early 1950s would have a degree of wear and deterioration, especially if it does not have a protective covering. A loose card in pristine condition is a red flag.
- 5
  Check the signature on the card against confirmed Mickey Mantle autographs. Discrepancies indicate a potentially bogus card.

Sports Cards Collecting