The Nishitetsu Lions of Japan Pro Baseball played their home games at Heiwadai Stadium in Fukuoka from the team's inception in 1950 until 1978. On June 2, 1954 the Lions played their first home night game. The stadium lighting system had been completed only the day before! This copper ashtray commemorates the completion of Heiwadai Stadium's light system installation. It is really solid, weighing in at 2 lbs. 3 oz. The ashtray was designed in the shape Heiwadai Stadium. It contains the Japanese inscription "June 1, 1954 Commemorating Completion of Night Game Equipment" in the center. The new light tower is seen projecting over the stands behind home plate.

The stadium lighting must have been quite helpful to the Lions. Prior to 1954, the team had never won a pennant since its inception. In 1954, the Lions won the Pacific League title with a record of 90-47-3 for a .657 winning percentage. The team was led by Japan Hall of Fame members Hiroshi Oshita (1954 MVP), Futoshi Nakanishi (1954 HR leader) and Yasumitsu Toyoda. The Lions were also pennant winners each season from 1956-1958. So it seems as though these lights may have been a contributor to the Lions' success.

Size: 6" x 5 3/4" x 3". Weight: 2 lbs. 3 oz.

Condition: The metal is well toned. The ashtray is still completely solid and does not display any cracks.