An extra rare treasure

[fukuoka]

Do you want to see something that rarely comes around? It's not a medal but maybe just as thrilling. Click below to see it listed on Yahoo Auctions.

http://page10.auctions.yahoo.co.jp/jp/auction/m103099507

[JapanX]

Could you translate inscriptions on the box cover Rich?

Cheers,

Nick

Edited July 27, 2012 by JapanX

[fukuoka]

First of all, the box is not original to the bonbonierre, which is indicated in the item description. So we have to wonder who inscribed the box and when he did it. The inscription reads 'Pure silver, Imperial Gift, Midget Submarine [特殊潜航艇], Kyoto, Made by Miyamoto.' The latter is also inscribed on the reverse.

[JapanX]

First of all, the box is not original to the bonbonierre, which is indicated in the item description.

Exactly!

So we have to wonder who inscribed the box and when he did it.

I wonder

Thanks for translation Rich!

Cheers,

Nick

[fukuoka]

The box can be disregarded. The bonbonierre, though, is one of those rare military imperial gifts that are so highly prized. You can see a couple more in Peterson's book, though they have nothing to do with medals. These were given to invited guests to imperial events. My sources do not have this particular one recorded, but I imagine it dates to the 1930s.

[JapanX]

My sources do not have this particular one recorded, but I imagine it dates to the 1930s.

I bet the seller would strongly disagree with you

He likes to think that this is one of these single-seated suicide subs :lol:

Edited July 27, 2012 by JapanX

[JapanX]

Like this one

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaiten

Looks very much alike ...

[Jareth]

Looks like an early torpedo to me. Perhaps kind that was ship board tube launched?

[JapanX]

Looks like an early torpedo to me. Perhaps kind that was ship board tube launched?

Do you mean type 93?

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_93_torpedo

[fukuoka]

Y

I bet the seller would strongly disagree with you

He likes to think that this is one of these single-seated suicide subs

Yes, the seller thinks the opening was for a suicidal sailor--but it was actually just a place for candy.

These bonbonnière (spelling wrong in previous post) are exceptionally beautiful and well-made. Military-themed ones, though, are quite hard to find.

[JapanX]

Yes, the seller thinks the opening was for a suicidal sailor...

Too romantic or too good marketeer?