We know that this card was originally issued as a 1st prize winner card associated with one of the several bromide sets released by the Marutoku Co. in 1951 and 1952.  However, we are not sure as to which set it belongs.  This is only the second example of this card that we have ever encountered.

1951 and 1952 were banner years for Tetsuharu Kawakami.  In 1951, his Yomiuri Giants finished the season with a 79-29-6 record in winning the Central League title, and then they easily defeated the Nankai Hawks in the Japan Series.  Kawakami won the Central League batting championship with a .377 average and was named league MVP.  In 1952, the Giants were nearly as dominant, cruising to an 83-37-0 record and once again easily defeating the Hawks in the Japan Series.  Kawakami “slumped” to a .320 batting average.

This example is in exceptionally high grade for a c. 1950 1st prize bromide.

Blank back card.

Size:  7” x 9 7/8”

Condition:  Near Mint