First cards I ever saw were 1952 Topps, which caught my eye because of the stars around the name panel. In 1953, it was the painted backgrounds I found fascinating. But the 1954 set really hooked me with the solid color backgrounds, the prominent team emblems and the great back design with stats and cartooned bio facts. Have to say this is my all-time favorite set.

(I saw the 52s and 53s because an older playmate had them. The first pack I got to open for myself was the 1954 set.)

This is the oldest set I've ever completed. An O/C Ernie Banks RC was the final card needed. At one point there were thoughts of upgrading it, but with vintage prices skyrocketing the card will do nicely!

You wanted to know about the first pack I ever opened. It was either a 1954 Topps or Bowman. I can't remember, but I purchased these one-cent cards at a local family grocery store.

Probably the first pack I ever opened. I remember buying penny packs of one card each, or six packs for a nickel. Might have the year wrong, but its close! I def remember the cards!