China, Republic. A Rare Air Force Order Of Rejuvenation, Ii Class With Case, C. 1945

Instituted 1937. A silver five point star, each arm presenting a cluster of six enamelled rays, green enamelled bases with two red, two white and two red enameled smooth rays, each quadrant presents a set of gilt wings, the three bottom enamelled rings have a red enamelled star in the middle of the two white rays, the obverse medallion presents a gilded flower, surrounded by a rich blue enamelled ring with silver five airplanes equally distanced with in the ring pointed toward the flower, the reverse presents Chinese inscription and is marked 657, the badge presents a small integral cloud suspension, worn on the original ribbon with a slot style brooch pin suspension, measures 73.70mm (w) x 83.25mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension), weighs 54 grams (including ribbon), light enamel wear in rays, scattered gilt wear, lightly soiled ribbon, a rare award in very fine condition.

Accompanied by its hardshell case of issue ornate embroidered cloth exterior overlaying a wood frame, triple recessed medal beds, the flanking two beds having previously housed other medals that have been lost to time, dual sliding ivory pin closures, measures 310mm (w) x 175mm (l) x 33mm (d) soiled around edges and on left side of lid, ribbon to hold lid open detached from lid, case in fine condition.

Footnote: This is the highest Order of the Chinese Nationalist Air Force. The II Class was conferred upon members of the Air Force in recognition of 6 to 8 kills, at least 250 missions, and at least 750 hours of flight time.