Cards from the ultra rare Marui Decorative Bromide w/Small Image set had been seen only very very occasionally until we discovered several unopened tabas quite recently. This discovery affords the collector the rare opportunity to
acquire high grade versions of rookie cards of a number of Japan Hall of Fame members. Although Tsuruoka began his playing career in 1939, the first known cards produced with his image appeared in 1947, making this example a rookie
card. After the 1939 season, Tsuruoka left for the war effort, not to return to Japan Pro Baseball until 1946! In his eight short seasons in the league, he batted .295 and was a two time league MVP. He then went on to manage the Hawks
for 23 seasons, leading the team to 11 pennants and two Japan Series titles. Overall, he had 1,807 wins and a .609 winning percentage as a manager. Blank backed.
Size: 1 3/4" x 2 5/8"
Condition: Ex/Mt to Nm