From 1977 until his passing last October, Ed Kubina, a fourth grade teacher in Newburgh, NY, devoted his life to his family, his job, and collecting autographs and baseball cards. The focus of his collection: his boyhood idol, Mickey Mantle.

More than 300 of his signed Mantle photographs, bats and cards are featured in Lelands’ auction ending February 1.

With a hoard so vast and fresh, there are potential bargains.

1952 Topps Mickey Mantle. This one is exceptional for its “good”grade, earned by being well centered and free of creases. PWCC, the largest dealer of investment grade cards, awards a 45% premium for cards with tremendous “eye appeal,” making this specimen likely to trade at $20,000 or more in my opinion. (Kubina paid $100 for it ungraded 20 years ago.) Current bid: $16,623.

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