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Posted By: Paul

One of the early editions of the Beckett & Eckes Sports Americana price guides recommended the solvent toluene. This is a very harsh chemical. However, according to the article printed in the price guide, it is safe to actually soak the entire card in toluene. The tape then falls off, leaving behind a tape stain. The stain can then be removed by dipping a Q-Tip into the toluene and gently rubbing the card.

The author of the article emphasized that he had tried this procedure only on 1952 Bowmans, and he removed the tape from an entire complete set. Since your cards are 1951 Bowmans, they are probably made of the same paper and ink.

I tried this on a 1964 Topps Mantle with less than stellar results. The tape came off, but so did some ink. If I was in your position, I would probably try it on my weakest condition common card and see what happens.