In 1953, Wally Yonamine was in only the third year of his stellar career as a player, scout, coach and manager in Japan. During his 12 years as an active player, he would win three Central League batting championships, an MVP award, was named to seven consecutive Best 9 teams, and was an 11 time All Star. No wonder, he was elected to the Japan Baseball Hall of Fame! The JF 18 card of Yonamine (right) features a striking head and shoulders portrait that captures the essence of the man.

The card at left is designated JF 15 Type 2. Type 2 cards differ from Type 1 in that they do not have a Kobai Caramel logo printed on the obverse. JF 15 cards feature a player headshot in the upper right corner. The player's facsimile signature, in this case Yonamine's, is found at lower right. The Japanese Baseball Card Checklist & Price Guide, Vintage Edition 2.1 has assigned an R4 designation to JF 15, indicating that 10 or fewer copies of this card are known.

Size: 1 5/8" x 2 1/4"

Condition:JF 15 Type 2--Good +. JF 18--Condition: Fair due to several small chips on the front.