Japan, Empire. A Rare Order Of The Sacred Crown, Ii Class, C.1900

(宝冠章 Hōkan-shō). Instituted on January 4, 1888 by Emperor Meiji of Japan. A silver gilt oval medallion with clusters of three enameled cherry blossoms forming the four points of a star, suspended from a green enamelled wreath with three white peony flowers, characteristic of the II Class badge, centre obverse presenting a silver gilt ancient Japanese Imperial Crown on a blue enamel background, with a red enameled surround with finely enameled stocks and a dual pearl border, centre reverse plain, measures 47mm (w) x 73mm (h- inclusive of peony wreath suspension and horizontally pierced suspension ball), all enamels and pearls intact, extremely fine condition as well as extremely rare.

Footnote: This Order was established by Emperor Meiji. It is conferred in recognition of notable services and originally awarded to Japanese and foreign women, and occasionally men. It has been noted that the second class of the award was reserved for a select group of recipients including the highest Japanese dignitaries. Today, the order is conferred only upon members of the Imperial Family and foreign ladies of distinction. On April 13, 1896, this Order was increased to 8 classes with the addition of the V, VI, and VII classes.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.