1953 Bowman

[Volod]

I have read that the real, or at least most pressing, reason that Bowman issued the final series of 64 cards in its 1953 set in black and white, rather than color was the heavy anchor that DiMaggio's endorsement contract turned out to be. Of course, there's no question that the Kodachrome color process was more costly than black and white, but the wording of Joe D's contract apparently tied his payoff directly - probably exclusively - to the color cards. Consequently, Bowman could easily cut him out of the production cost simply by eliminating color and dropping Joe from the wrapper, which see for evidence:

[ALR-bishop]

That's interesting info, Steve

[Volod]

The Clipper was a shrewd business guy indeed...Mr. Coffee, et al, but i doubt that he ever dunked at all, Kramer notwithstanding.

[almostdone]

Originally Posted by Volod

I have read that the real, or at least most pressing, reason that Bowman issued the final series of 64 cards in its 1953 set in black and white, rather than color was the heavy anchor that DiMaggio's endorsement contract turned out to be. Of course, there's no question that the Kodachrome color process was more costly than black and white, but the wording of Joe D's contract apparently tied his payoff directly - probably exclusively - to the color cards. Consequently, Bowman could easily cut him out of the production cost simply by eliminating color and dropping Joe from the wrapper, which see for evidence:

Makes you wonder how much the use of his name and likeness (sort of) on a wrapper would cost the company. Interesting thought though. Thanks for sharing it Steve.
Drew