Japan, Imperial. An Order of the Golden Kite, V Class consisting of a blue enamelled Romanian Cross with clusters of nine gilt rays in eac worn on a replacement red

worn on a replacement red ribbon

an unusual example displaying a wide and uncut core in better than very fine condition

It was founded in 1881 on a private initiative and operated until 1938

an additional hole drilled through the stake just below the insignia

accounting for 16 of the 31 Axis vessels sunk

Japan, Imperial. An Order of the Golden Kite, V Class consisting of a blue enamelled Romanian Cross with clusters of nine gilt rays in eac worn on a replacement red( (Kinshi kunsho). Instituted in 1890. In silver with red, purple, yellow, blue, and white enamels, the badge depicting a golden kite above crossed ancient shields with two crossed spears and banners, on original striped green ribbon, measures 45. 1 mm (h) x 46 mm (w), enamel cracks on the red rays, 12 oclock arm is slightly bent, in near very fine condition.