To date, only two examples of this card have been seen in the hobby.

A number of cards in an uncatalogued 1958 menko set containing the Maruta logo on the back have been seen over the years. Of the 14 different cards seen to date, nearly all depict 1958 rookie phenom, Shigeo Nagashima. The images on the backs have a military and space theme. This card is a part of that uncatalogued set. "Nagashima Kyojin (Giants)" is printed on the card front in Japanese kanji, and Nagashima is seen from the rear view with his uniform number three emblazoned on the back of his jersey.

Nagashima's debut in Japan Pro Baseball was possibly the most anticipated of all time for any player. The former Rikkio U. star didn't disappoint, batting .305 with 29 homers in 1958, leading the Central League in homers and RBIs, and finishing second in the race for the batting title. Unsurprisingly, he was named Central League Rookie of the Year. That performance was just the start of an amazing career that lasted until his retirement after the 1974 season.

Size: 1 13/16" x 3"

Condition: Poor due to creasing.