[the 'stache]

As to your question about what set to build, you can start by narrowing it down somewhat. Since the Nationals weren't around during this period, I might ask if you have a second favorite team, or if you have any favorite players from the 50s, 60s and 70s. You also want to consider what kind of a budget you have to play with. If you select a set from the early 50s, you're looking at a good chunk of change. A set like the 1954 Topps set will be pretty pricey with the Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks and Al Kaline rookies. But if you're not against building a set slowly, then you can't really go wrong with it. You also get a nice Ted Williams. But, there is no Mickey Mantle. If you go with something like the 1956 Topps set, you get a plethora of really nice early cards. The Mantle is very collectible, and more affordable comparatively. There's also a nice Ted Williams. The '56 sets is one of my favorites from Topps.

You could also look at something like the 1953 Bowman Color set. It's smaller, but gorgeous! So many iconic cards in that one, including the Pee Wee Reese.

If you're more into the 70s, I really like the 1975 Topps set, which I'm building right now. Lots of great Hall of Fame rookies-Robin Yount, George Brett, Gary Carter and Jim Rice, plus Keith Hernandez' rookie. Lots of great veteran Hall of Famers, too. Harmon Killebrew, Hank Aaron, Bob Gibson and Lou Brock, Ron Santo and Billy Williams, Frank Robinson. You also have a beautiful Thurman Munson in that set.

The easiest way to pick a set is to start eliminating things you don't want. Pick a decade. Pick some favorite players. Pick a set where you might already have some cards.

Let us know what you decide. Most importantly, have fun with it!