*Japan, WW2, Imperial Japanese China Incident War Medal (支那事変従軍記章) 1939–1945, Bronze Campaign Medal*
A Second World War Imperial Japanese campaign medal known as the China Incident War Medal, awarded to members of the Japanese armed forces who served during the conflict in China between 1937 and 1945. The medal is struck in bronze and suspended from its original ribbon with bronze suspension bar.
The obverse features the Yata-no-Karasu, the mythological three-legged crow associated with divine guidance in Japanese tradition. Above the crow appears the Imperial Chrysanthemum crest, symbol of the Japanese Emperor, while crossed Imperial Japanese Army and Navy flags appear behind the figure.
The suspension bar bears four raised characters 従軍記章 (Jūgun Kishō) translating to “War Service Medal.”
The reverse shows a stylised landscape of mountains rising above clouds and waves, representing the Chinese theatre of operations. Beneath the mountains appear the characters 支那事変, meaning “China Incident.” This was the official Japanese term used for the war in China before it was absorbed into the wider Second World War conflict.
The medal is suspended from its original watered silk ribbon, featuring a central red stripe flanked by buff and blue bands, representing the colours traditionally associated with the Japanese Army and Navy.
Approx. Measurements – Medal diameter: 30 mm.
History Note:
The China Incident War Medal (支那事変従軍記章) was instituted by Imperial Edict No. 496 on 27 July 1939. It was awarded to members of the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy who participated in operations during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945).
The award recognised military service during Japan’s prolonged campaign in China, which began with the outbreak of large-scale hostilities in July 1937 and later merged into the broader Pacific War after 1941. Large numbers were issued throughout the conflict to soldiers, sailors and supporting personnel who served in the theatre.
*Condition*
Good overall condition for its age. The bronze medal retains an attractive aged patina with clear detail to the design. The ribbon appears original and remains bright, showing light wear consistent with age and storage. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3031AE_2795237044
