The 1956 Topps issue is one of the most popular of the era, and the last
of the larger-format card issues before Topps adopted the size now
considered to be standard with its 1957 issue. This Gray Back version
of the #135 Mickey Mantle card from the set is one of the keys to the issue and certainly in high demand.
This example features Mickey's boyish smile in the foreground, and
an
action shot of him making a leaping catch over the outfield fence in
the background. Centering is south and east on the
horizontal canvas. Corners are soft and slightly rounded, while the bottom edge especially exhibits some chipping. A couple light surface abrasions to the left of Mickey's face and on his left cheek explain the card's technical grade. Brilliant colors and
illustrations on both sides give
this
card
tremendous eye appeal.