Original Imperial Japanese WWII Order of the Rising Sun, 5th Class Medal in Incorrect Presentation Case

Original Item. Only One Available. The Order of the Rising Sun (旭日章, Kyokujitsu-shō) is a Japanese order, established in 1875 by Emperor Meiji. The Order was the first national decoration awarded by the Japanese government, created on 10 April 1875 by decree of the Council of State. The badge features rays of sunlight from the rising sun. The design of the Rising Sun symbolizes energy as powerful as the rising sun in parallel with the "rising sun" concept of Japan ("Land of the Rising Sun").

This is a lovely example of the 5th Class Order of the Rising Sun, with the correct part gold and part silver plated metalwork. These are identical to the 6th class except for the plating, which is all silver on the 6th class. The order is in fantastic condition with the enamel very well-retained. This example comes in an incorrect presentation case which is molded for a different medal. It still displays fine this way however.

The Order of the Rising Sun is awarded to people who have rendered distinguished service to the state in various fields except military service. Since there is no order for military achievements under the current Japanese system, Japan Self-Defense Forces personnel are awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure for their long engagement in public service. Prior to the end of World War II, it was also awarded for exemplary military service. In 2003, the 7th and 8th Class, which were at the bottom of the Order of the Rising Sun, were abolished, and the upper half of the 1st Class (勲一等, Kun-ittō) was separated as the Order of the Paulownia Flowers, which was higher than the Order of the Rising Sun.

This is a fantastic WWII Example, ready for further research and display.