WW2 Imperial Japanese Order of the Sacred Treasure 5th Class Medal in Original Lacquered Presentation Case – 勲五等瑞宝章 This is an original World War II-era Imperial Japanese Order of the Sacred Treasure, 5th Class (勲五等瑞宝章, Kun Goto Zuihō-shō), complete with its original fitted black lacquer presentation case and period ribbon. Established in 1888 during the Meiji period by Emperor Meiji, the Zuihō-shō (Order of the Sacred Treasure) was created to recognize long and meritorious civil or military service. By the Second World War, it had become one of the most widely awarded honors within the hierarchy of the Dai Nippon Teikoku (Empire of Japan), bestowed upon officers, civil servants, diplomats, police officials, and others whose service to the state upheld the stability, expansion, and administration of the empire. This 5th Class example features the classic eight-pointed starburst in silver, adorned with alternating white enamel rays and ruby-red enamel cabochons representing the magatama, a sacred curved bead of great cultural significance in Japanese Shinto tradition. At the center is a circular blue enamel ring surrounding a mirror-like silver medallion, symbolizing purity and sincerity—virtues central to the order’s moral foundation. The reverse of the medal bears the official kanji inscription 瑞宝章 (Zuihō-shō), with two small rivets securing the multi-layered construction. The decoration is suspended from a folded, light gray silk moiré ribbon with two central orange stripes, signifying its 5th Class status. The ribbon is mounted in the wartime-style triangular fashion with a horizontal pinback attachment. The accompanying black lacquered case bears silver kanji characters on the lid reading 勲五等瑞宝章 (Kun Goto Zuihō-shō), indicating the order and class. Inside, the medal rests on a form-fitted insert lined in purple silk, a color traditionally associated with imperial rank and prestige. The case remains in very good condition for its age, with typical wear to the lacquer, a small clasp for closure, and a well-preserved interior. During the wartime period, the Order of the Sacred Treasure was frequently conferred upon both military and civilian personnel, including posthumously. Although it is considered a civil order, the blurring of military and civil service in Imperial Japan—especially during the mobilization years of the 1930s and 1940s—means that many recipients were military officers recognized for administrative excellence, medical service, logistics, or military governance in occupied territories. Following the Allied occupation and the postwar reforms, the order was retained under the new Japanese government but stripped of its wartime associations and ranked differently in the modern honors system. This medal remains a striking example of Imperial Japanese craftsmanship and symbolic state authority. As a complete wartime-issued set with the correct ribbon and case, it stands as a highly collectible artifact representing the structured ceremonial traditions of the Japanese Empire in its final decades. At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of militaria, our curated inventory includes a diverse range of artifacts from various periods and conflicts. From uniforms and insignia to medals and equipment, we aim to connect you with pieces that tell the stories of the past. Our expertise and attention to detail mean you can trust that every item you purchase is genuine and precisely represented. Customer satisfaction is our top priority, and we strive to make your collecting experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you have any inquiries or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Using the Offer Feature We are pleased to offer a "Make an Offer" feature on our website, allowing you to negotiate the price of items that catch your eye. Once you submit an offer, expect an email from us shortly after. If your offer is accepted, the email will include a special payment link for your convenience. Please check your spam folder if you have strict email filters. We promise to respond to all offers as quickly as possible. If you do not hear from us within one business day, feel free to reach out directly via phone or text at the contact information below to ensure your request is promptly addressed. Contact Us For the fastest response, we recommend reaching out via email or text. We typically reply to emails and text messages the quickest. 📧 Email: vdgmilitaria@yahoo.com 📱 Phone/Text: 651-968-3882 Thank you for visiting VDG Militaria. We wish you happy collecting and look forward to helping you find the perfect addition to your collection.