#25: The Most Sought-After Rookie Card

Mickey Mantle’s legacy lives on in pop culture and collector circles. His 1952 Topps rookie card—especially in mint condition—is one of the most sought-after and valuable sports cards ever. In January 2021, one sold for an astounding $5.2 million.

The card represents more than rarity—it symbolizes baseball’s golden age and the enduring fascination with “The Mick.” Collectors and fans see it as a relic of innocence, talent, and nostalgia. That a piece of cardboard could capture so much reverence speaks to the mythical place Mantle holds in American memory.