1954 vs 1955 Which one?

[PowderedH2O]

Great answer! I am primarily working on a 1952 Bowman set, but I know the 53 set is next. So, I am picking those up too when a great deal arises. You should follow the same thing. It might take longer to finish a set, but you won't get bored and you might save money.

[jasonc]

NateMack, that is a really good idea, however I don't know what it is, I just feel overwhelmed doing two sets at the same time, especially 50's sets, with the cost of putting together, etc. I do kind of agree with the point being made about the 1954 being different with the multiple colored backgrounds, and the cards in the 1955 looking somewhat the same.

I guess I'll just wait, and the set where I can find the better deal on a good low to mid grade starter set might be the next one, or if I can snag one or two of the big rookies for an awesome price that would help decide as well.

[gs1833]

Both are great. 1955 does have Clemente and Koufax, but the 1954 -- to me -- has better eye appeal and captures the 1950s a little more. You really can't go wrong either way, though.

[hcv123]

Clemente Rookie - nuff said (from one of Clemente's biggest fans anyway )

[the 'stache]

Oh man, hard choice. The '54 set has Hank Aaron's rookie, and I'm a huge Aaron fan. Aaron is revered in Milwaukee, where I was born, and with good reason. The '55 set has Clemente's rookie, and I'm an even bigger Clemente fan (by a hair).

How can you go wrong? '54 has Aaron, Banks and Kaline rookies. '55 has Clemente, Koufax and Killebrew rookies. Are you kidding me? Either set is going to have iconic rookie cards. Either set is going to be visually striking. Great color, great design.

I honestly don't know if I could choose. I might go with '55 only because the '54 set doesn't have the rookies I listed. That might just be enough to get me to collect the '55 set.

[CxG Voodoo Doll]

Here's my lone 54.




I love the 54 set. It is a bit pricier though.

[jasonc]

It was a VERY tough decision. I decided on 1955 topps for my low to mid grade set build. I just think they look better overall than 1954, Actually after seeing the 12 key cards from the set all together, man the colors and the appearance just pop out. I would say with the bigger size cards, this set is the most attractive set overall, not far behind is 1954 or 1956 and a handful of others.

1955 has the Clemente and Koufax rookies. I decided that 1955 already has an Aaron, Kaline and Banks, but 2nd year, not quite their rookies, but they are nice looking cards. No Clemente or Koufax, of course, in the 1954.
Not a big fan of their being two Ted Williams in the 1954 as well.
Plus the Jackie Robinson and Mays cards look better in the 1955 version IMO.

206 cards vs 250 cards makes it a little easier as well.

To be honest, it was not easy.

Now, this is a build that might not start in month or so, going to take my time, plus I want to complete my 1956 first. Gotta start budgeting as well.

[the 'stache]

Very nice Williams, CxG.

Jason, I think that's smart. Ultimately, I'd have gone for the '55 set for the reasons you listed. You get the benefits of those great rookie cards, and the second year cards for Aaron, Banks and Kaline.

I look forward to seeing your progress!