We have never seen an example of this card before now. The card was undoubtedly originally issued as a first prize winner card on a display sheet. We believe that it was a winner card associated with JBR 50 Type 1 Square Black & White Menko, as the same font used on this card is also used for JBR 50 Type 1, but we are not certain. In any case, it is a striking close-up pose that depicts Bessho's delivery.

Takehiko Bessho was Japan's premier pitcher during the late 1940s and early 1950s. He twice won 30 or more games in a season, baffling hitters with a variety of off speed deliveries. During his career, he won two MVP awards and two Sawamura (Japanese Cy Young) awards. He won 310 games and had a lifetime ERA of only 2.18. In 1948 he had a 26-10 won-loss record with a 2.05 ERA and was named to the league Best 9 team. Blank backed.

Size: 8 7/8" x 11"

Condition: Would be G/Vg except that holes have been made at the left edge and right edge, most likely for mounting.