Japan, Imperial. An Order Of The Rising Sun, I Class Grand Cordon, C.1900

(旭日章 Kyokujitsu-shō). Instituted in 1875 by Emperor Meiji of Japan. In silver and Japanese manufactured, a sash badge consisting of a white enamel eight-pointed star, with cluster of three intermediate rays and cleft endings, obverse centre exhibiting beautiful glass cabochon in red color, with reverse presenting double-sided design, suspended by a green and violet enamel imperial symbol of the Paulonia flowers, with Japanese lettering on the reverse standing for “Order of Merit Decoration”, measuring 55.77 mm (w) x 84.66 mm (h - inclusive Paulonia flowers suspension), marked by unknown maker’s mark on the suspension, accompanied by original full-length sash with bow, extremely good condition; together with the star of the order in silver, an eight-pointed star with arms composed of three rays with cleft endings, obverse centre superposed by a white enameled insignia in silver gilt, with a central red glass cabochon, reverse with vertical pinback flanked by dual stays and Japanese lettering standing for “Order of Merit Decoration”, measuring 89.67 mm (w) x 90.33 mm (h), presenting dark patina and slightly loss of enamel, overall extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Rising Sun was established in 1875 by Emperor Meiji of Japan. The order is awarded to those who have made distinguished achievements in the following fields: international relations, promotion of Japanese culture, advancements in their field, development in welfare or preservation of the environment. Prior to the end of the Second World War, it was also awarded for exemplary military service. Beginning in 2003, the two lowest rankings (7th and 8th classes) for the Order of the Rising Sun were abolished, with the highest degree becoming a separate order known as the Order of the Paulownia Flowers, with the single rank of Grand Cordon.

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.