Indeed, the toughest series of cards in the 1949 BOWMAN set are in the 5th Series
(#145 - 180). My theory is, these were most
likely short-printed. As Bowman was in a hurry for the production of their last 72 cards of this set (the 6th Series). The 6th Series
cards (comprising of sheets 6 and 7) are somewhat more available than the 5th series cards.
In completing several 1949 Bowman sets throughout the years, my experience is, that these 2 cards are the most difficult to find:
Preacher Roe (#162) and George Stirnweiss (#165).
I am not sure why the Preacher Roe card is tougher to find than other cards in the 5th Series. But, one thing is for sure, Roe was
the Dodgers' southpaw pitching "ace" during 1948 - 1953 with a 93 - 33 Won-Lost record.
Now, on the other hand, the scarcity of the George Stirnweiss card goes with a story......
Back in the 1980's and 1990's, when I would set up at BB cards Shows in New Jersey, George Stirnweiss' family often attended.
His family would buy every Stirnweiss card I had (1947 Tip Top, 1948 - 1951 Bowmans, 1952 Topps, etc.). Therefore, my guess
is this is partially the reason for why his 1949 Bowman card is very difficult to find.
I'm curious....you collectors of 1949 BOWMAN cards....what card (or cards) in this set have you found difficult to get ?
TED Z
T206 Reference
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