Japan, Merit Medal for Japanese Seafarer Relief Association, in original fitted issue case, circa late XIX - XX century.
In gold-plated silver and enamels. The medallion is 32.5 mm in height (incl. the eyelet), 36.3 mm in width. Suspended from an exquisitely designed and crafted anchor with a flower rosette in the middle. Total length to the eyelet of the suspension anchor is 68.9 mm. The medal comes with the original black lacquered wooden case of issue with a fitted velvet pad for the medal.
The medal is in excellent condition. All the components are intact and show just minimal age wear. The issue case is, unfortunately, broken. However, there are no missing pieces of wood, so it can be repaired
In gold-plated silver and enamels. The medallion is 32.5 mm in height (incl. the eyelet), 36.3 mm in width. Suspended from an exquisitely designed and crafted anchor with a flower rosette in the middle. Total length to the eyelet of the suspension anchor is 68.9 mm. The medal comes with the original black lacquered wooden case of issue with a fitted velvet pad for the medal.
The medal is in excellent condition. All the components are intact and show just minimal age wear. The issue case is, unfortunately, broken. However, there are no missing pieces of wood, so it can be repaired in experienced hands and with due patience and tools.
The medal was established in Meiji 14 (1881) to provide assistance for merchant seamen. The Association helped seamen to get educated, find housing, health care, etc. It also provided aid to families of their members who died. Nowadays, the association maintains its name but only runs a number of hospitals, so their last remaining original duty is health care.
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