JapanX

Describes them in English/German do you mean? If so, then I don't know such book.

Also regimental histories/полковые истории sometimes also very useful. 184 volume of different Russian regiments published in XIX and early XX century can be downloaded here (PDF/DJVU formats) http://www.runivers.ru/lib/rubriks/180570/ Regards, Nick

For early history of russian uniform see famous "Historical description of uniform and arms of Russian Army" in 19 volumes that was published in 1841 — 1862. All 19 volumes can be downloaded here (1899 edition) http://www.runivers.ru/lib/book3096/9740/

"In european letters" What are these? Do you mean non-russian sources? Unfortunately I don't know a comprehensive book that would cover uniform and shoulder straps of the russian imperial army. In russian you might try these Famous "Shenk tables" В.К.Шенк. Таблицы формъ обмундированiя Русской Армии.С.-Петербургъ. 1910г. В.К.Шенк. Таблицы формъ обмундированiя Русской Армии.С.-Петербургъ. 1911г. Also very useful sources (from the same author) Шенк В.К. Гренадерские и Пехотные полки [1909] Шенк В.К. - Инженерные и Железнодорожные войска [1909] Шенк В.К. - Императорская Гвардия [1910] Шенк В.К. - Кавалерия (Кроме Гвардейских и Казачьих частей) [1909] Шенк В.К. - Стрелковые части [1910] Шенк В.К. - Гренадёрские и пехотные полки [1909]

Well guys, I'll tell you one thing - with this price tag and with such reviews this piece will be on sale for quite awhile :whistle:

Tell you the truth I didn't even realize that we are talking about Vietnam War medal. So you are interested in so-called Memorial Medal of Honor of the Republic of China Military Assistance Group to the Republic of Vietnam According to this source (p.751) http://books.google.ru/books?id=qh5lffww-KsC&pg=PA751&lpg=PA751&dq=republic+of+taiwan+medal+for+vietnam&source=bl&ots=jBIWA5yuTA&sig=ReyW5Jd3_ouXnZofdX4ZIRU80Mo&hl=ru&sa=X&ei=bbF-UqLlF-ue4gS62YDgCg&ved=0CDoQ6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=republic%20of%20taiwan%20medal%20for%20vietnam&f=false these medals indeed were issued, but I personally never seen one.

I am afraid this is impossible since it's fantasy fake. Your should be on a look out for pieces like this one http://www.omsa.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=682 Best, Nick

P.S. If I remember correctly inscription on the banner reads "For the fatherland". Reverse - name of the order and class.

This one was established on July 7, 1950 in two classes for "military leaders and commanders for outstanding achievements and skills on the battlefield" 1st class for commanders of divisions and brigades. 2nd class for commanders of regiments, battalions and companies. As was mentioned earlier piece in post # 1 was made by Soviet Mint in the early 50s. Made in silver. Piece in post # 5 was made in North Korea (I'd say 70s). Made in cheap white alloy. Cheers, Nick

Undoubtedly!

Take a look at this partisan-aviator

No number in sight

No number in sight

Take a look at this piece!

Unfortunately not all these pieces are currently in my collection But this Meiji order is definitely a highlight here! Actually I think this is one of the very first orders of the crown. Even piece from Metropolitan museum has characteristics of later pieces http://gmic.co.uk/index.php/topic/58628-orders-of-the-precious-crown-from-the-collection-of-metropolitan-museum/page-2?hl=+precious +crown And we know that it is in the Museum collection since 1904

Now everything is in order!

That`s about it folks!

Reverse of early piece vs. Reverse of later piece

Reverses Showa/Taisho/Meiji

Suspensions Showa Taisho Meiji

Enamel on leafs Showa Taisho Meiji

Now let`s compare this three pieces in one gallery Central medallions Showa/Taisho/Meiji

Suspension