The 10 Most Valuable Cards In The 1949 Bowman Baseball Set

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The 1949 Bowman Baseball set is a landmark release in the hobby and one of the most historically significant sets of the post-war era.

Alongside the 1948 Leaf set (also released in 1949), Bowman helped usher in the colorized era of baseball cards, introducing bold backgrounds and vivid uniform accents that broke away from the black-and-white styles of earlier decades.

Most notably, the set features some of the earliest mainstream baseball cards of Black players, including Jackie Robinson, Satchel Paige, and Roy Campanella — making it a cultural and collectible milestone.

With only 240 cards, it’s a relatively small set by modern standards, but completing it, especially in higher grades, is challenging and expensive. Iconic rookie cards, printing quirks, and low survival rates have made the 1949 Bowman set a favorite among vintage collectors.

This guide breaks down the 10 most valuable cards from the 1949 Bowman set, complete with collector insights, current PSA pricing trends, and investment outlooks.

1949 Bowman Baseball – Top 10 Cards with PSA Pop & Value Estimates

Player	Card #	PSA 7 Value	PSA 4 Value	PSA 7 Pop	PSA 4 Pop	Total Pop	Notes
Jackie Robinson	50	$14,000+	$6,000+	139	216	1850+	Scarce in mid-grade; key post-war rookie
Satchel Paige	224	$12,000	$5,000+	164	290	1130+	Most iconic Paige card; high collector demand
Roy Campanella	84	$2,000	$900	158	189	1575+	Hall of Fame RC; rising in collector circles
Duke Snider	226	$4,000	$1,300	112	130	940+	Dodgers legend; still undervalued
Stan Musial	24	$1,400	$600	143	181	1270+	Legendary Cardinals HOF, great investment
Yogi Berra	60	$1,500	$500	115	153	1100+	Yankees catching great, strong collector demand
Richie Ashburn	214	$1,500	$750	83	108	660+	Hall of Fame rookie card for the Phillies legend
Larry Doby	233	$4,200	$1,400	108	64	670	First AL Black player; underrated RC, low pop
Bob Lemon	238	$1,000	$375	85	70	1,001	HOF pitcher; good upside in low pop grades
Robin Roberts	46	$900	$400	80	130	900	HOF pitcher; rookie card with solid demand

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1. 1949 Bowman Jackie Robinson #50

Jackie Robinson’s 1949 Bowman card is widely considered one of the most important post-war baseball cards and is considered a true rookie card (along with his 1948 Leaf card, which was also released in early 1949.

By 1949, Robinson had already cemented his place in history, breaking Major League Baseball’s color barrier in 1947. That year, he also won the inaugural Rookie of the Year award.

By the time this Bowman card was released, he was already a star, on his way to a Hall of Fame career that included six All-Star selections, a 1949 MVP award, and six National League pennants.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Jackie Robinson rookie cards on eBay

📌 Why It’s Special

• Seen by many collectors as Robinson’s more visually appealing “rookie-era” card
• Part of Bowman’s first full-color post-war set
• Represents a turning point in card design and baseball history
• A must-have in any vintage Hall of Fame collection

📈 Market Values (Updated 2025)

• High-grade copies (PSA 8+) can sell from $30,000 to $300,000, depending on condition and centering
• Mid-grade examples (PSA 5–7) range from $8,500 to $15,000
• Low-grade copies (PSA 1–2) typically sell for $1,500 to $3,000, with increasing demand

🔍 Collector Insight

Robinson’s 1949 Bowman is scarce in higher grades, with just 11 PSA 9s and around 115 PSA 8s in the population. Even lower-grade examples have steadily appreciated in recent years. Collectors view this card as a cornerstone of any serious vintage collection — not just because of Robinson’s legacy, but because it is beautiful and relatively challenging to find well-centered.

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2. 1949 Bowman Satchell Paige #224

Leroy ‘Satchel’ Paige was a living legend before he ever threw a pitch in Major League Baseball. Long considered one of the greatest pitchers in Negro League history, Paige finally broke into the majors in 1948 — at age 42 — when he signed with the Cleveland Indians and became the first Black pitcher in the American League.

His 1949 Bowman #224 card is considered one of his true rookie cards, alongside the 1948–49 Leaf issue. While Robinson may be the more well-known figure historically, Paige’s Bowman rookie rivals Jackie’s in value, scarcity, and cultural impact — especially as collectors continue to re-evaluate the overlooked history of the Negro Leagues.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Satchel Paige rookie cards on eBay

🖼️ A Noteworthy Design Quirk

Unlike most of the 1949 Bowman set, Paige’s card includes his name on the front, a detail seen on only a handful of cards in the set. That subtle difference, combined with Paige’s legendary status, makes it an instant standout for collectors.

📈 Market Values & Scarcity (Updated)

• PSA 9 copies: Only 10 exist
• Last PSA 9 sale: $228,000 (2022 auction)
• PSA 8: Often trades in the $30,000–$40,000 range
• PSA 1 (Poor): Still sells for $2,000–$3,000, reflecting enduring demand
• Total PSA population: ~1,150

💡 Collector Insight

Satchel Paige’s Bowman rookie has become one of the most respected vintage cards in the hobby — not just for what it represents, but for how difficult it is to acquire in quality condition. There is only 1 PSA 10 copy, and even finding a well-centered mid-grade version is a challenge. Paige’s legend continues to grow, and this card has strong long-term investment potential, especially as interest in Negro League history increases.

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3. 1949 Bowman Roy Campanella #84

Roy Campanella was one of the greatest catchers in baseball history — a three-time National League MVP and an eight-time All-Star who helped lead the Brooklyn Dodgers to their first World Series title in 1955. Often overlooked by hobbyists, Campanella was also the first person of mixed race to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, marking a quiet but important moment in sports history.

His 1949 Bowman rookie card (#84) is a cornerstone of post-war baseball collecting and one of the most desirable catcher cards from the vintage era.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Roy Campanella rookie cards on eBay

🧾 PSA Population & Market Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~1600
• PSA 10 Copies: 2 known
• PSA 9 Copies: 18
• Last PSA 10 Sale: $108,000 (Heritage Auctions, 2018)
• Current PSA 8 Value: ~$4000
• PSA 4 Value: ~$1500
• PSA 2 (Low Grade): ~$600–$650

💡 Collector Insight

Campanella’s Bowman rookie remains a relatively affordable Hall of Fame card, especially in lower to mid-grade condition. While mint copies are extremely scarce, PSA 4–6 examples offer a great entry point for vintage collectors looking to own a card from a true Dodgers legend.

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4. 1949 Bowman Edwin “Duke” Snider #226

Duke Snider’s 1949 Bowman rookie card is his only true rookie card, as he did not appear in the 1948–49 Leaf set. Known as “The Silver Fox,” Snider was a key figure on the powerhouse Brooklyn Dodgers teams of the 1950s and remains one of the most beloved Dodgers of all time.

A smooth-swinging center fielder with power and grace, Snider was named to eight consecutive All-Star teams (1950–1957) and finished in the top 10 of MVP voting five times during that span. He played a central role in leading the Dodgers to six National League pennants and two World Series championships during his tenure.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Duke Snider rookie cards on eBay

📊 PSA Population & Value Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~1,000
• PSA 10 Copies: 1
• PSA 9 Copies: 13
• PSA 8 Market Value: ~$3,500–$4,000
• PSA 4 Value: ~$1500
• PSA 2 (Low Grade): ~$850–$950

💡 Collector Insight

Snider’s Bowman rookie is one of the most desirable cards from the set — often ranking as the fourth most valuable card behind Jackie Robinson, Satchel Paige, and Roy Campanella. Despite his Hall of Fame pedigree, Snider’s card remains relatively affordable in lower grades, often available under $1,000, making it an attractive option for both Dodgers fans and vintage collectors.

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5. 1949 Bowman Stan Musial #24

Stan “The Man” Musial is widely regarded as one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. A model of consistency and class, Musial was a 24-time All-Star, a three-time MVP, and a lifelong St. Louis Cardinal.

While Musial’s true rookie card appears in the 1948 Bowman set, his 1949 Bowman #24 is a highly desirable second-year card that many collectors prefer due to its richer design and vivid purple background — a sharp visual upgrade over the stark black-and-white photo used in his ’48 rookie.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Stan Musial cards on eBay

📊 PSA Population & Market Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~1,300
• PSA 9 Copies: 10
• PSA 10 Copies: 0
• Last PSA 9 Sale: ~$16,000
• PSA 4 Market Value: ~$600–$700
• PSA 2 Value: ~$400

💡 Collector Insight

Despite being a second-year card, Musial’s 1949 Bowman remains a key card in the set and a must-have for Cardinals fans and post-war collectors. With no PSA 10 copies known and around 10 in PSA 9, high-grade versions are exceptionally scarce. Thankfully, lower-grade examples are still widely available under $500, offering an accessible entry point into one of baseball’s most legendary careers.

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6. 1949 Bowman Yogi Berra #60

Yogi Berra remains one of the most iconic and beloved figures in New York Yankees history — not only for his Hall of Fame playing career but for his lasting cultural impact. Known for his clutch postseason performances and quotable wit, Berra helped lead the Yankees to 10 World Series titles as a player, more than anyone else in MLB history.

His 1949 Bowman #60 card marks his second-year issue, following his true rookie card in the 1948 Bowman set. Many collectors gravitate toward this second-year card due to its richer visual design and its place in the iconic 1949 Bowman checklist.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Yogi Berra cards on eBay

📊 PSA Population & Market Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~1100
• PSA 9 Copies: 16
• PSA 10 Copies: 0
• Recent PSA 9 Value: ~$12,000
• PSA 4 Market Value: ~$400–$450
• Low-Grade (PSA 2–3): ~$250–$300

💡 Collector Insight

Yogi’s 1949 Bowman is a great option for collectors priced out of his rookie card. Mid-grade examples remain affordable, and high-grade copies are genuinely scarce — especially given the lack of any PSA 10s. With Berra’s legendary Yankee legacy and enduring popularity, this card remains an underrated second-year gem in the vintage market.

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7. 1949 Bowman Richie Ashburn #214

Richie Ashburn was a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Phillies during the 1950s — a two-time National League batting champion, five-time All-Star, and a fan favorite known for his elite defense, speed, and on-base skills. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1995, long after his playing career, but remains a deeply respected figure in Phillies history.

Ashburn’s 1949 Bowman card (#214) is his true rookie card, and one of the few cards in the set to feature the player’s name printed on the front — a design quirk that adds to its uniqueness and collector appeal.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Richie Ashburn rookie cards on eBay

📊 PSA Population & Market Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~700
• PSA 9 Copies: 1
• PSA 8 Value: ~$2,500–$3,000
• PSA 4 Value: ~$700–$800
• Low-Grade Value: Often available for ~$300 or less

💡 Collector Insight

Ashburn’s rookie card is a great value play for vintage collectors looking for Hall of Fame rookies without breaking the bank. While not as flashy as Robinson or Paige, Ashburn’s career stats and his connection to a classic Phillies era give this card a strong long-term collecting case, especially in higher grades where population is limited.

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8. 1949 Bowman Bob Lemon #238

Bob Lemon wasn’t always considered a lock for the Hall of Fame — but his body of work eventually spoke volumes. A seven-time 20-game winner, Lemon was a workhorse for the Cleveland Indians and a fierce competitor on the mound. He later found additional success as a manager, helping guide the Yankees to a World Series title in 1978.

Though some debate his Hall of Fame credentials based on statistical metrics alone, Lemon’s toughness, big-game reputation, and sustained success during baseball’s golden era have secured his place among the greats.

His 1949 Bowman #238 is considered his true rookie card, and it ranks among the more underrated Hall of Fame rookies in the set.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Bob Lemon rookie cards on eBay

📊 PSA Population & Market Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~550
• PSA 9 Copies: 3
• Recent PSA 9 Sale: $32,000
• PSA 5 Value: ~$500
• PSA 3–4 Range: $250–$350

💡 Collector Insight

With fewer than 500 mid-grade or better copies in existence, Lemon’s rookie card presents an intriguing opportunity for vintage collectors. Low supply, historical value, and a Hall of Fame pedigree make this card one of the better value plays in the 1949 Bowman checklist — particularly in the PSA 5–6 range, which remains accessible under $500.

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9. 1949 Bowman Larry Doby #233

Larry Doby was a trailblazer in his own right — the first Black player to integrate the American League, joining the Cleveland Indians just weeks after Jackie Robinson’s debut in the National League. Despite his groundbreaking role and excellent playing career, Doby often doesn’t get the widespread recognition he deserves.

That’s slowly changing. In recent years, renewed awareness around Doby’s legacy — particularly through MLB’s Players Alliance and other advocacy efforts — has helped shine a light on his importance, both culturally and on the field.

His 1949 Bowman rookie card stands out not just for its significance, but also for its design. While many cards in the set are basic portrait shots, Doby’s card captures him in an eye-catching batting pose, making it one of the most dynamic and attractive cards in the checklist.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Larry Doby rookie cards on eBay

📊 PSA Population & Market Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~1,200
• PSA 8 Copies: 71
• PSA 8 Value: ~$4,000
• PSA 5–6 Range: $500–$900
• PSA 3–4 Value: ~$300–$450

💡 Collector Insight

Larry Doby’s 1949 Bowman is a true Hall of Fame rookie card with long-term upside. It’s a great piece for collectors who want to own a meaningful card tied to baseball integration history. PSA 8s remain scarce and underappreciated, while lower-grade copies offer a budget-friendly entry into an important piece of post-war hobby history.

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10. 1949 Bowman Robin Roberts #46

Robin Roberts is widely considered one of the greatest pitchers of the 1950s and an all-time Philadelphia Phillies legend. Known for his pinpoint control and durability, Roberts posted six straight 20+ win seasons from 1950 to 1955 and ranked in the top 10 for MVP voting five times during that stretch — a rare feat for a pitcher.

His 1949 Bowman rookie card (#46) is the only recognized rookie of the Hall of Famer and often flies under the radar among collectors. It’s arguably the best value rookie card in the set, offering historical significance at a much lower price point than the likes of Robinson, Paige, or Campanella.

👉 Search 1949 Bowman Robin Roberts rookie cards on eBay

📊 PSA Population & Market Insights

• Total PSA Population: ~900
• PSA 9 Copies: 6
• Recent PSA 9 Auction Price: ~$5,000
• PSA 4–5 Value: ~$300–$400
• Low-Grade/Raw: Often found for under $250

💡 Collector Insight

Roberts’ rookie card is ideal for budget-conscious vintage collectors or anyone looking to round out a 1949 Bowman Hall of Fame rookie checklist. It remains highly collectible and historically relevant, but has yet to see the same surge in demand as some of its more famous counterparts — which may make now a great time to buy.

Final Thoughts: Collecting the 1949 Bowman Baseball Set

The 1949 Bowman Baseball set stands as one of the most important post-war sets ever released — not just for its vibrant design and historical timing, but for its role in featuring some of the earliest mainstream cards of Black players like Jackie Robinson, Satchel Paige, and Larry Doby.

From Hall of Fame rookies like Roy Campanella and Robin Roberts, to second-year cards of legends like Stan Musial and Yogi Berra, this set offers collectors an impressive range of history, artistry, and investment potential.

While high-grade versions of these cards can fetch five or six figures, the beauty of 1949 Bowman is that it still offers plenty of entry points for collectors at all budget levels. Whether you’re pursuing long-term investments, building a Hall of Fame rookie collection, or simply appreciating the rich history of the game — this set delivers.