This is a JF 31 first series, brown ink card. A grey ink back series was printed later in 1962. The card has been assigned a scarcity factor of R4 in the Japanese Baseball Card Checklist & Price Guide, Vintage Edition, indicating that 10 or fewer examples of this card are known in the hobby.

At the time this card was produced, Oh, entering his fourth season, had approximately 40 lifetime home runs. Big things had been predicted for him in 1959 when he joined the Yomiuri Giants. However, as of Spring 1962, he had failed to reach these lofty expectations. 1962 was Oh's breakout year, in which he clubbed 38 round trippers on his way to an astounding 868 lifetime home runs. The unique image features a youthful Oh gazing intently at the viewer, with his surname printed in Japanese kanji at upper right.

Tachibana cards were often pasted to sheets which the collector sent in to claim a prize from the issuer. Moreover, the redemption point section (non-picture portion) of the card was often cut off by collectors. This scarce card is complete with the redemption point section still attached. It would make a great addition to any Sadaharu Oh collection.

Size: 1 19/32" x 2 9/32"

Condition: Vg with soft corners and creasing.