BEHIND THE MASKS: Patrick Roy

One of my favorite insert set subjects would definitely be goalie masks. I love the closeup shots that appear on some of these card sets (Pinnacle Masks, Between The Pipes Masks, ITG Masked Men....the list goes on).

One of the more unique insert sets would be the Donruss Painted Warriors sets from the mid-90's. There were two seasons where they put out clear die-cut cards of goalie masks. I really like this concept.

Why is it then that it took forever for me to complete the 1996/97 set? Who knows. Maybe I was just lazy about getting the last card. Maybe I didn't want to spend a ton of money finishing it off. Maybe I just couldn't find the card.

Well, the big card show here in town last month finally put this baby to rest. Now I can sleep better at night.

1996/97 Donruss Elite
Painted Warriors
#1 Patrick Roy /2500

Now, while I like this card and the set, I personally am a bigger fan of the other year's release. These cards just have a dull feel to them and it's tough to even read the text on the front (can you read what it says under 'painted'? Neither can I). The photo is ok (I had to bump up the contrast and brightness to get a better sense of it in the scan) but I really think they could have done a better job with the design.

Still - it's a goalie mask....so it's a keeper in my collection.