"The Mick's Homage to Friendship" - Mickey Mantle Signed and Inscribed Photo to Whitey & Joan Ford. Up for auction is a singular and intimate piece of baseball history: a photograph signed and whimsically inscribed by Mickey Mantle, one of the greatest to ever play the game. What sets this piece apart is its poignant personal connection to another Yankees legend, Ed "Whitey" Ford, and his wife Joan. The affectionately humorous inscription, "In need of a friendly repairman call", reflects the camaraderie and bond shared between Mantle and the Fords. This photograph captures Mantle in work clothes, a playful nod to an off-the-field persona, making this a truly one-of-a-kind piece of memorabilia. Elegantly housed in a museum-quality frame, this photo transcends the realm of sports collectibles to become a cherished artifact of personal history. Mickey Mantle, known as "The Mick," was a titan of Major League Baseball and a centerpiece of the New York Yankees dynasty through the 1950s and 60s. His friendship with pitcher Whitey Ford, another monumental figure in baseball, speaks volumes about the interpersonal relationships that underpin the sport's competitive veneer. This photo, personalized for Mantle's good friends, sheds light on the tight-knit community behind the Yankees' success and offers a rare glimpse into their off-the-diamond lives. The item's exclusivity is unparalleled—it's not just a signed picture, but a nexus connecting two of baseball's most storied athletes, capturing a moment of friendly jest. The unique inscription underscores the import of this piece, reflecting a shared sense of humor and the deep respect Mantle had for his fellow Yankees heroes. This photo comes with a rigorous guarantee of authenticity, its signature standing as a testament to its unique historical narrative. The presentation within the custom-designed frame is nothing short of immaculate—built not only to display but to preserve. The artifact-grade plexiglass provides a barrier against ultraviolet light, while the archival-quality matting ensures the photo remains in pristine condition. We anticipate this lot to be the subject of significant attention from both passionate collectors and baseball historians. The scarcity of this item, coupled with its intimate historical connections, marks it as a standout piece. Collectors and enthusiasts are presented with the rare chance to own not just an autograph, but a symbol of the enduring fellowship found within one of America's most storied baseball franchises. This artifact is an invitation to celebrate the legacy of Mickey Mantle, the excellence of Whitey Ford, and the genuine moments that define the legends of the game. Secure this lot and enshrine within your collection a narrative that is as rich and heartfelt as it is historic. Authenticity has been verified by leading forensic experts. A detailed Letter and Certificate of Authenticity will be included in the purchase. The Opinion of Authenticity is guaranteed by "Scientific Authentication Company", the forensic authentication service that performed the forensic analysis.

Good