1950 Bowman Baseball

The 1950 Bowman Baseball checklist has 252 cards, which is up slightly from 240 in 1949. The set is home to some of the first cards of both Jackie Robinson and Yogi Berra, who are among the most popular (and valuable) cards in the set.

Other notable players include Ted Williams, Warren Spahn, Bob Feller, Roy Campanella, Pee Wee Reese and Duke Snider. The key rookie cards in 1950 Bowman Baseball are Don Newcombe and Hank Bauer.

Because he's the first card in the set, Mel Parnell can also command strong values. Often left on the top of a rubber band-bound stack, the card took the brunt of the damage at a time when condition and collectability weren't considerations.

As collectors can see, 1950 Bowman Baseball continued to evolve as far as design goes. While 1948 Bowman Baseball offered plain black-and-white photos, that moved to colorized photos the following year. Yes, they had some color, but it's limited. 1950 Bowman opts for paintings instead of photos, but the trade is full color. The paintings are based on photos and go for a realistic approach.

Cards are smaller than what's standard today, measuring 2-1/16 by 2-1/2 inches. Nevertheless, the card backs make good use by filling most of the space with a player bio and some basic info. For cards #181 to #252, there are versions with and without the copyright info on the back.

Considering the age, 1950 Bowman Baseball isn't overly expensive. The lack of a major rookie card helps. That would change for 1951 Bowman, which has both Mickey Mantle and Willie Mays rookies.

Key 1950 Bowman Baseball Cards

  • Mel Parnell RC #1
  • Bob Feller #6
  • Phil Rizzuto #11
  • Warren Spahn #19
  • Pee Wee Reese #21
  • Jackie Robinson #22
  • Don Newcombe RC #23
  • Yogi Berra #46
  • Roy Campanella #75
  • Duke Snider #77
  • Ted Williams #98