The monetary value of a signed item from this New York Yankees legend is determined by a complex interplay of factors. These include the item’s type (baseball, photograph, card, etc.), its condition, the autograph’s authenticity and grade, and the historical context surrounding the signature’s acquisition. For example, a baseball signed during Mantle’s playing career typically commands a higher price than one signed later in his life. Similarly, a pristine, authenticated game-used jersey with his signature will be significantly more valuable than a mass-produced photograph with a potentially questionable autograph.
Understanding the valuation of such memorabilia provides insights into not only the financial aspects of collecting, but also the cultural significance of the player and his era. Mantle’s enduring popularity, combined with the finite number of genuinely autographed items, creates a market where these pieces represent tangible connections to baseball history. This has fueled significant interest from collectors and investors alike, making these items not only cherished possessions but also potential investment assets.
