Reviving this interesting topic.
Here an example of an earlyRising Sun 5th class in a Tamatebako case with red tassels, and an Emperor Meiji signed document to a German engineer. The early lower classes of the Order of the Rising Sun had cases decorated with pauwlonia flowers, with the grade written inside. Later this was limited to the third class upwards.
As for the Sacred Treasure, the lower classes in Tamatebako cases, have always had the grade written on the lid. From third class upwards they followed the pattern of the Rising Sun, with the difference that the tassels are purple. By the way, I have never seen a ladies version of the Sacred Treasure in a Tamatebako case. If anyone has a picture os a ladies Sacred Treasure in such a case, I would love to see it.
Regards, Pieter