Japan, Empire. An Order Of The Precious Crown, Vii Class With Case

(Hokan_sho / 宝冠章). Instituted in 1888. In silver with blue detailing on the crown in the centre, measuring 38 mm (w) x 47 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, dark patina, contact marks evident on the reverse, original bow-tied ribbon with pinback, near extremely fine. Accompanied by its Rosette, measuring 11.5 mm in diameter with pinback, in its hardshelled case of issue, balsa wood frame, the exterior with a black lacquer finish, gilt characters on the lid, inside lid lined in violet satin and padded, base with a platform in violet satin and recessed, measuring 100 mm (w) x 130.5 mm (h) x 31.5 mm (d), contact marks and scuffing evident on the exterior, case also near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Precious Crown was instituted on January 4, 1888 and is awarded mainly to women for distinguished services, but occasionally awarded to men. It was originally issued in five grades, with three more classes added on April 13, 1896, and the bottom two discontinued in 2003.