Lot # 2589: Circa 1962 Mickey Mantle & Roger Maris Returno "Pitch-N-Hit" Game

The national mania surrounding the famed "home-run duel" between Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris in 1961 was not overlooked by the executives on Madison Avenue. As a result, the following years witnessed the production of many products featuring the pair's endorsement. Offered here is one of the rarest of such pieces: a Mickey Mantle-Roger Maris Returno "Pitch-N-Hit" game. This example is particularly unusual as the box has a red primary color as opposed to green as we have previously seen. This game is especially appreciated by collectors for the attractive design of the box. The lid, which features die-cut portrait photos of Maris and Mantle, can be folded back to highlight their images and display the interior contents. Portrait images of Mantle and Maris are also displayed on the front and back side panels. The game is essentially a practice aid that allows two players to pitch and hit without having to chase the ball. The contents consist of a Mantle/Maris ball (featuring their facsimile signatures) that is attached to a string. The string is, in turn, attached to a plastic base that can be mounted into the ground by means of two accompanying steel pegs. Manufactured by Returno, Inc., of Long Island, New York. The box (13 x 9 x 3 inches) displays a few minor tears to both the lid and side panels that have been repaired with vintage clear tape. Remnants of two original price tags (one on Mantle's cap) remain on the lid. The game includes all of its original components. The interior pieces remain in Excellent condition with the exception of moderate oxidation to the two steel pegs. The box is in Fair to Good condition but displays exceptionally well. The size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot.