This set consists of two prestigious Imperial Japanese military and colonial orders, both issued during the pre-WWII and WWII era. These decorations are historically significant, reflecting Japan’s military honors system and colonial influence in Manchuria.
1. WWII Japanese Golden Kite Order, 5th Class
Official Name: 金鵄勲章 (Kinshi Kunshō) – Order of the Golden Kite
Class: 5th Class (五級)
Dimensions: 49.86 mm (height) x 46.25 mm (width)
Suspension: Traditional loop for ribbon attachment (ribbon missing)
Overview & Historical Significance:
Established in 1890 by Emperor Meiji, the Order of the Golden Kite was Japan’s highest purely military decoration.
Awarded exclusively to Japanese Army and Navy personnel for bravery, leadership, and distinguished service in combat.
Unlike most Japanese orders, it was not conferred on civilians or foreigners.
It was issued from 1890 until 1945, before being abolished by the Allied occupation after Japan’s WWII defeat.
The 5th Class was typically awarded to junior officers and enlisted soldiers for battlefield valor.
2. WWII Japanese Manchukuo Auspicious Clouds Order, 8th Class
Official Name: 大勲位瑞雲章 (Dai Kun’i Zuiunshō) – Order of the Auspicious Clouds
Class: 8th Class (lowest rank in the order)
Dimensions: 51.95 mm (height) x 45.95 mm (width)
Suspension: Loop for attachment (ribbon missing)
Overview & Historical Significance:
Established in 1934 by Emperor Kangde (Puyi) of Manchukuo, a Japanese-controlled puppet state in Manchuria.
Awarded for meritorious service to Manchukuo, primarily to Japanese military personnel, officials, and pro-Japanese Chinese collaborators.
The 8th Class was the lowest rank, typically given for entry-level merit or long service.
This two-medal lot encapsulates key aspects of Imperial Japan’s military and colonial award system, covering:
Military combat valor (Order of the Golden Kite, 5th Class)
Colonial service & administration (Manchukuo Auspicious Clouds Order, 8th Class)
Condition & Considerations:
Both medals lack ribbons, which affects display but not historical authenticity.
Golden Kite Order (5th Class) is highly valuable due to its abolition in 1945.
Auspicious Clouds Order is a rare Manchukuo-era piece, symbolizing Japan’s expansionist policies in China.
This set is ideal for military history enthusiasts, WWII collectors, and Japanese imperial memorabilia specialists.