T202 or T205 for a novice prewar collector?

[Cozumeleno]

I don't think anyone can make up your mind - collect what you want. And what's to say you can't do both? If you want to stick with one, I'd recommend buying a few commons, getting them in person, and seeing how you feel about each once you have them in hand. There have been plenty of cards I've bought over the years where my opinion drastically changed once I saw some in person.

Personally, I like the T205s in part due to their basic size and the fact that I can get them into the tobacco sheets in a binder. The folders always seemed a little awkward to me and if I were going to collect them, I think they would present the best slabbed, which would be an additional cost in either having them graded or buying graded examples.

Both sets are beautiful - best of luck in whatever direction you go.