[pingman59]

It was 40 years ago that I embarked on the 1950 Bowman set. I chose it because there wasn't an expensive Mantle or Mays card. They were expensive back then (I don't remember how much though). I started by trading a bunch of Topps stars from the late 50's and early 60's for over half the set in VG-EX to EX-MT shape. From there, I bought card-by-card. I have found, even today, that the first 36 cards are harder to find than the next 36 cards. The price guides lump the first 72 cards together, but I think you'll find it is easier to collect card #37-72. So, when you see cards from the first two series in the condition you like, get them. I passed on three or four Jackie Robinson cards early in my journey and ended up paying more for the card for lesser condition. It was the last card I needed to finish the set, too. It never hurts to get the expensive cards out of the way right away. I learned that lesson. All the best in your 1950 Bowman collecting journey!