The 1952 Topps #261 Willie Mays is one of the most iconic cards in the hobby. Although his true rookie card appeared in the 1951 Bowman set, the 1952 Topps card is the first Topps card of the Say Hey Kid and remains one of the centerpieces of the landmark 1952 Topps issue.

The front features a classic portrait of Mays in his New York Giants cap, set against a rich purple background. The "Giants" team logo appears at lower left, and a facsimile signature is printed within the star-bordered nameplate. The portrait captures the youthful intensity of the 21-year-old center fielder.

The reverse notes that Mays was "Voted the National League Rookie of the Year in 1951," that he "hit .477 in 35 games" at Minneapolis before the Giants called him up and that "his first Big League hit was a Home Run." It closes by noting that he "went into the Army in May, 1952."

Mays returned from military service in 1954 to win the batting title and the NL MVP award, and he made one of the most famous plays in baseball history with his over-the-shoulder catch in the World Series. Over 22 seasons he hit 660 home runs, won 12 Gold Gloves and two MVP awards and was named to 24 All-Star Games. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1979.

This example shows wear consistent with the grade, including rounded corners and edge wear, but the portrait remains bright and the eye appeal is strong. The reverse is clean and fully legible. An affordable example of a true hobby icon. Graded FR 1.5 by PSA.