Motoshi Fujita and Tadashi Sugiura were arguably the two best Japanese pitchers of the late 1950s. In 1958, Fujita dominated the Central League, while Sugiura ruled the Pacific League. 1958 had been an excellent year for both, as Fujita rolled to a record of 29 wins and 13 losses while fashioning an other worldly 1.53 ERA. Sugiura won Rookie of the Year honors posting a 27-12, 2.05 record. In 1959, both continued their mastery of Japan Pro Baseball hitters, with Fujita at 27-11, 1.86, and Sugiura thrilling the fans with an unbelievable 38 wins, 4 losses, 1.49 ERA, 336 Ks, and only 33 walks in 371 1/3 innings. Sugiura was named Pacific League MVP. His Nankai Hawks then cruised to a sweep over Fujita's Yomiuri Giants in the Japan Series, with Sugiura winning all four games!

JCM 136 is one of the more seldom seen tobacco menko sets of the era. We are pleased to present an uncut pair of cards depicting the two pitching aces in the midst of their two greatest seasons. Not only are the cards in top condition, but there is no extra paper or glue on the back from previous attachment to a display sheet. Apparently, these cards never made it to a display sheet, or were cut from a first prize sheet many years ago. Based on the appearance of the borders, we suspect that they were simply destined for the display, but were never circulated.

Size: Each card is 1 13/16" x 3". The uncut pair is 3 5/8" x 3".

Condition: The white borders and images on the front retain their original luster as if the cards were just printed. Corners and borders are sharp. Each card would be Nm/Mt or better if the cards were separated.