Japan - Empire: Lot of Two Medals Without Ribbons
1. Japan, Empire – Order of the Golden Kite, VII Class
Specifications:
Official Name: 金鵄勲章 (Kinshi Kunshō) – Order of the Golden Kite
Class: VII Class (Seventh Class)
Dimensions: 56.16 mm x 42.66 mm
Suspension: Traditional ring for ribbon attachment (ribbon missing)
Condition: No ribbon, but medal appears well-preserved
Order Overview:
The Order of the Golden Kite was a military decoration established by Emperor Meiji in 1890 to honor exceptional bravery and distinguished service in combat. Unlike other Japanese orders, it was exclusively awarded to military personnel and symbolized Japan's martial traditions.
Historical Context:
Awarded exclusively to military personnel from 1890 to 1945
Recognized for combat bravery in wars like the Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895), Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), and World War II
Abolished in 1947 after Japan's defeat, under Allied occupation reforms
2. Manchukuo – Order of the Pillar of the State, VIII Class
Specifications:
Official Name: 国柱勲章 (Kokuchū Kunshō) – Order of the Pillar of the State
Class: VIII Class (Eighth Class, lowest rank)
Dimensions: 51.03 mm (height, including bar suspension) x 39.95 mm (width)
Material: Silvered metal with enamel details
Suspension: Bar suspension for ribbon attachment (ribbon missing)
Condition: No ribbon, some surface wear
Order Overview:
The Order of the Pillar of the State was one of the highest national honors awarded in Manchukuo, the Japanese puppet state in China from 1932 to 1945. Instituted in 1936, it was awarded to both military personnel and civilians for distinguished contributions to the Manchukuo government.
Historical Context:
Created in 1936 under Emperor Puyi’s reign
Awarded to both Japanese and Manchurian officials
Became obsolete after Japan’s defeat in 1945, when Manchukuo was dissolved
Seen as a controversial relic of Japanese imperialism in China
This two-medal lot represents imperial Japan’s military and colonial history, including:
A prestigious Japanese military order (Golden Kite)
A rare Manchukuo decoration (Pillar of the State)
Condition Issues:
Both medals lack ribbons, reducing value
Despite missing ribbons, this historically significant set is valuable to collectors of Japanese militaria, World War II artifacts, and Manchukuo relics.