Dieter3

This is a great medal! I've only got one example of a medal and a document - in decent condition, but I would definitely like to get another medal in nicer condition.

The tube is FANTASTIC! A super, extra-nice touch to the an already incredible document. Love the imperial seal on it. :love:

Yeah, look at the one back in the post #95 - same thing with the grip - clearly off center, not quite right. I think we must conclude that these were not manufactured this way and done after the fact. But you are right - the who, the when, and the why! Hmmm.....

My pleasure! Yesm, I too like the lower class awards, really all of them. I totaly agree on the simple yet elegant design. Especially the Rising Sun! Very elegant in my opinion! It always seems to the the numeral character that changes most dramatically and really stands out!

Great info, thanks! So I know this maker was known for enamel art works/items, medals as well? There was another one recently on eBay with this mark, but the medal was not as nice and the mark was somewhat lost among the other scuffs, but could still make it out. The case as diffferent, in fact another kanji variant - possibly the 3,764th now known variant to exist.... Smilar to case variants..... :lol:

Another one of our "M"-marked medals, with "SU"-marked rosette in case with silver kanji - the kanji look goldish in the photo, but they really are silver.

This one has a thicker case, obvioulsy different inscription style (Type 2?) - what do you think Nick, post-1900/pre-1910? No maker's marks.

How about this one? Obviously Meiji, not as early as Hirata of course. But I'm thinking pre-1900. The case is thinner in the vertical dimension than other Meiji-era cases I've examined. Case is a little beat up, no rosette, but I like the katakana "NA" hallmark. The inscription seems rather prominent, doesn't it?

Guessing 1970's, maybe early 80's? No maker's marks or codes of any kind. Back to using lacquerware case, not Bakelite/plastic. Somewhat different kanji style (8) on the lid.

SWEEEEEEET! :D

LOVE IT!!!! :jumping:

I can see how it appears silver, no way to tell without having it in hand. But doesn't really look very bronze-like either. Hmmmm......

And another one from the same seller: http://page10.auctio...tion/m101247842 Looks a bit less "silver" than the other ones, but......

You have no idea! I am likely in the top 10 pickiest people in the world. :lol:

Well, rare or not, it is unique! I suspect though that these were probably plated to make them more of a curiosity or add uniqueness somehow to an otherwise super-common item, not necessarily for purposes of deception as being a rare item. We will probably never know, but it is intriguing to think about! Well, for me anyway. But I am easily intrigued.... ;)

So, who's gonna pick up the phone and call the Japan Mint and just ask them, "O.K., what's the deal with the codes?" :lol: