Mantle "To ______ " removed?

This is no question authentic, but doesn't it appear like a personalization has been removed?

It's incredibly obvious.

My main question, why would JSA and PSA/DNA not make note of this in the LOA?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mickey-Mantle-Best-Wishes-Single-Signed-Aut...

Tags: Mantle, personalization, removed

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Permalink Reply by Bill Morris on July 3, 2013 at 9:00pm

The PSA/DNA letter does mention the removal: "There are indications of a inscription removal above the signature". It is a shame to alter a ball with a sweet signature like that.

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Permalink Reply by John T. on July 3, 2013 at 10:55pm

wonder how they clean that part out. I got a ball with dirt mark on it. Can use that to clean the ball.

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Permalink Reply by terrier8HOF on July 4, 2013 at 7:22am

I think defacing a ball devalues it. I would rather have the personalization and the dirt mark, than any evidence that the ball had been tampered with.

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Permalink Reply by CJCollector on July 4, 2013 at 11:03am

I agree with, Terrier. I actually look for my personalized autographs that read "To Chris" or "Best Wishes, Chris."

Just leave the ball alone.

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Permalink Reply by Null on July 4, 2013 at 4:25pm

I agree with Terrier/Christopher 100%. IMO this devalues/ruins the ball completely. I wouldn't buy this ball for $50 shipped. John leave the ball as it is! I also always keep an eye out for "To Ryan" pieces, "To Chris" is far more popular!

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Permalink Reply by Steve Zarelli on July 5, 2013 at 4:55am

One thing to note is the dedication is not removed - it is airbrushed over. There is a company that advertises this service.

If you look closely, you can see the white paint on the red threading above the airbrushed area.

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Permalink Reply by Bill Morris on August 25, 2013 at 5:35pm

This ball just turned up on the monthly auction at IconicMemorabilia.com (Lot # 24). There is no mention in the description of it being altered. I am going to try and contact them this week and see if they will be more forthcoming with their information. They did not show the letter from PSA/DNA.