Japan, Occupied. A Homma Medal, Philippines Expedition Commemoration, Type I, c.1942

Issued by 本間 雅晴 Homma Masaharu, a silver medal bearing a Japanese soldier on the obverse with inscription “比島遠征紀念 紀元二千六百二年” (translation: Philippines Expedition Commemoration · Imperial Year 2602), and reverse with a poem and two coconut trees, with a plain edge. There is a suspension loop at 12 o'clock. The medal measures at 35.5mm in diameter, and weighs 19.1 grams, dark patina, in very fine condition. 

Footnote: Homma Masaharu (1887-1946) was the Commander of the Japanese 14th Army which invaded the Philippines just days after the attack on Pearl Harbour during the Second World War. He was captured by American soldiers in 1945 and convicted for his perpetration of the Bataan Death March as well as other crimes. He was executed by firing squad in 1946.