Presented is a 1954 Red Heart Mickey Mantle graded PSA EX 5 (PSA cert. #174090214). The Red Heart issue is one of the most attractive and challenging regional sets of the 1950s, and its Mantle remains the undisputed key to the 33-card set.

Produced by the makers of Red Heart dog food, the cards were distributed through a mail-in offer rather than packs, with the set divided into three series identified by their solid red, blue and green background colors. That method of distribution, combined with the set's unusual sponsor, means surviving examples are far scarcer than those from the mainstream Topps and Bowman releases of the same year. Many collectors pursue the issue specifically for its bold, poster-like design: a crisp player image set against a vivid solid background with a clean white border.

Mantle is featured in his New York Yankees cap during the period when he had established himself as one of the most feared switch-hitters in baseball, just two years before his historic Triple Crown campaign in 1956. This example presents with excellent eye appeal for the EX 5 grade. The colors are rich and saturated, the image is sharp, and the card shows only modest corner wear and minor surface wear consistent with the assigned grade.

Mid-grade Red Heart Mantles with strong visual appeal are prized by both Mantle collectors and enthusiasts of 1950s regional issues. This is a scarce and highly desirable Mantle card that would anchor any advanced vintage collection.