Bowman Chrome... What's the deal?
 

Hi all,

After researching to see what Joe Mauer's best card is, it seems the vedict goes to his 2002 Bowman Chrome Autographed card. What would make this card so much more popular than others from that time such as his Bowman's Best Auto or even 2002 Upper Deck auto? Also, he had other cards issued before this while still in the Appy League. Is it because it is his first card to feature an MLB logo or be affiliated with the Majors even though he was still in the minors? I agree with the appeal and the card looks great. Just curious why this card is so huge for Mauer fans and in general for Bowman Chrome.

MLB logo: yes
Attractive: yes
On card auto: yes
Consistently the best product year in and year out: yes

1st Bowman Chrome auto is effectively the Topps RC of the past.

Thanks for the response. So I take it its based on the early reputation Bowman established and being known for putting out a lot of "first" cards of guys. Always liked this card of Joe. So this is considered THE rookie card for Joe?

Thanks again

Also wondering how many base autos there are each year for a Bowman Chrome Auto.

Thanks!

I'm a much bigger fan of the Heritage rookie auto. Bowman doesn't usually pick a great image for their first issue cards.

Based on the ratio of base to refractor autos (which are usually around 500), I'd say around 2,500 base chrome autos in draft. Not sure if the Chrome Autos in base Bowman or the autos in Bowman Chrome follow suit.

2001 Pujols Bowman Chrome AU led the way for this issue to be THE card for much of the 2000s.

Not a huge amount then. The number doesn't make the card or break it for me, just curious as to the print run. For me, I don't really differentiate between the base and paralells. A signed Joe Mauer rookie card is good enough for me. I feel that the base will hold value and is a more accesible card than a refractor or gold. That's just me though.

I noticed that his card commands big prices. I love Mauer but, Albert is in a different ballpark when comparing stardom.

Can see that argument on some of them. I think the photo they used for Mauer is pretty good. I talked with the gentleman that took the photo the other day and he told me some details behind it. Pretty neat.

You should see what prospect’s Bowman Chrome autos go for that have never played a game! Wander Franco for example.

After Trout’s Bowman Chrome Autos became unattainable due to price, collectors turned to his 2011 Update and ever since the flagship RC (lesser extent Heritage) of players have really taken off again.


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