Scarcer of the two Topps issues of 1951, the Blue Backs set consists of 52 cards initially sold either individually or by the pair as perforated two-card panels. Measuring 2” by 2-5/8” the cards have rounded corners, each displaying a black and white headshot of a player against red, white, yellow, blue, and green backgrounds. The Blue Backs set was printed on heavy card stock and offered as a playing card game with numerous in-game game situations printed on the front to simulate actual baseball. Their backs featured an intricate baseball diamond theme with various baseball-related motifs displayed boldly against a blue background.

This partial-set of 46 1951 Topps Blue Backs, missing six cards for completion, is an original owner collection assembled by our consignor when he was just a boy. Grouping presents quite well though some signs of handling are present, including several wrinkles and creases. Technical grades largely land within the FR to VG range with a few lesser. Missing for completion are: 18 Ned Garver, 21 Billy Johnson, 25 Sam Mele, 27 Andy Pafko, 31 Lou Brissie, 51 Eddie Waitkus. Key cards grade as follows: 3 Richie Ashburn (HOF - PR), 6 Red Schoendienst (HOF - FR), 30 Enos Slaughter (HOF - GD), 37 Bobb Doerr (HOF - PR), 50 Jonny Mize (HOF - PR). 46 cards total from one of Topps' two earliest baseball-related offerings (the other being 1951 Topps Red Backs).