Japan - Cased Order of the Sacred Treasure 6th Class

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Japan - 瑞宝章 Zuihō-shō (1888-2003). Instituted January 4, 1888, by Emperor Meiji, the Order of the Sacred Treasure was awarded to those who had been engaged for many years in public service of the national and local governments and who have accumulated distinguished service. It is constructed out of a die-struck silver-alloy base with multi-colored enamel work. The obverse features a raised, centrally placed silver “mirror” against a blue enamel background surrounded by a pebbled round border, red circles and four white clusters of five rays. The reverse features kanji characters impressed to it, translating to “Order of Merit Decoration.”. To the top is a ball loop and ring that holds the triangular folded light blue and orange ribbon, that has a top hook. The award measures 1 ½ inches wide and tall. The award comes with its sixth-class rosette and both are housed in its issue case. The case is constructed out of a wood base that has been covered in a black lacquer. The top features gold painted kanji characters. The reverse has a piano hinge and the front features a closure clasp. The interior is lined in purple satin. The case measures 2 1/2 inches wide by 3 ¾ inches deep by 3/4 of an inch thick. A nice piece.