1954 Bowman #1 Ray Matthews PSA 9

1954 Bowman #1 Ray Mathews PSA 9 – A Rare High-Grade Vintage Classic

By 1954, Ray Mathews had firmly established himself as one of the most dynamic offensive weapons for the Pittsburgh Steelers, known for his versatility, speed, and playmaking ability. A dual-threat as both a running back and wide receiver, Mathews played his entire 10-year NFL career (1951-1960) with the Steelers, showcasing his ability to rack up yards both on the ground and through the air. In 1954, he continued to be one of the team’s most reliable playmakers, finishing with 883 scrimmage yards and 7 touchdowns. A two-time Pro Bowler (1952, 1955), Mathews was an essential piece of Pittsburgh’s offense during the 1950s and later played a role in shaping the team’s early legacy.

This 1954 Bowman #1 Ray Mathews is an exceptionally rare PSA 9 example, making it one of the highest-graded copies in existence. Being the #1 card in the set, this issue was particularly susceptible to wear, making high-grade examples extremely difficult to find. The centering is outstanding, the corners remain razor-sharp, and the surface is immaculate, preserving this vintage football classic in near-mint to mint condition. With only a handful of PSA 9s and none graded higher, this card is a true collector’s gem.

For collectors of Pittsburgh Steelers history, early football legends, or rare high-grade Bowman football cards, this Ray Mathews PSA 9 is an investment-worthy addition. As the first card in the 1954 Bowman set, this issue holds historical significance, and its exceptional condition makes it a true rarity in the world of vintage football collecting.