Japan, Empire. An Order Of The Golden Kite, Vii Class With Case, C.1940

(Kinshi kunsho). Instituted in 1890. In silver, measuring 43 mm (w) x 56 mm (h) inclusive its laterally-pierced ball suspension, dark patina, slight tarnishing, original ribbon with hook and eye, near extremely fine. Accompanied by its 11.5 mm in diameter rosette with button hole attachment, in their hardshelled case of issue, the case with a balsa wood frame, black lacquer finish, raised platform with recessed medal bed, light scuffing on the exterior, the back panel coming away from the body at the base of the case below the hinge, case fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Golden Kite was an order of the Empire of Japan, established on February 12, 1890 by Emperor Meiji ""in commemoration of Jimmu Tennō, the Romulus of Japan."" It was an exclusively military award, conferred for bravery, leadership or command in battle. The order consisted of seven classes. Enlisted rank soldiers were eligible for the 7th to 5th classes, non-commissioned officers were eligible for the 6th to 4th classes, junior officers for the 5th to 3rd classes, field grade officers for the 4th to 2nd classes and general officers for the 3rd to 1st classes. It was officially abolished by the Supreme Commander of the Allied Powers of Occupied Japan in 1947 after the Second World War.

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.