There are quite a number of different tobacco type menko rookie cards of Legendary Hall of Famer, Shigeo Nagashima. However, rookie cards from actual candy and gum manufacturers are far less common. While the tobacco menko type cards were produced by printing companies and were not sold with product, candy and gum cards were associated with popular Japanese products, and are thus more highly prized by collectors in Japan. This "at bat, hips up" card is one of four different Nagashima cards found in the JG 23 set. Cards from the set often have candy stains because of the method in which the cards were packed with the candy, and this card is no exception, with some minor staining in the background. Nevertheless, the stern image of a young Nagashima at the plate shows through clearly. This is only the second time we have had the pleasure of offering this card at auction during our 27 years of buying, selling and auctioning vintage Japanese baseball cards.

Size: 1 9/16" x 2"

Condition: The card would grade Ex, but exhibits minor staining on the front and back, and several small ink marks on the front.