Japanese Wound Badge

[Brian T]

My knowledge of Japanese items is extremely limited. Is this wound badge legit? And if it is, what is a fair price (USD)?
Lastly, were these awards issued in a wooden box like the one pictured?
Thanks in advance,
Brian

[Alan M]

Hi Brian , that is indeed a very nice genuine Japanese wound badge you have there , with it`s original presentation box The example you show is known as a " Koushou" badge which means the soldier was awarded it for for being wounded in a non combat situation . This could have been for being struck down by disease or wounded in an accident whist on duty . I don`t like to give valuations , but i suppose it could be $60/$80 , hope this helps ,

[Brian T]

Thanks for the education Alan! I had no idea that there were non-combat wound badges.
I don't own it, but I was going to bid on it. The badge was on e-bay. I never pulled the trigger on bidding, though. It ended at nearly $140 (USD) this morning.

[sitges1990]

Hi Alan, I bought a Japanese medal years ago with the presentation box, and I was alittle worried because the box looks just like the one featured here, but it's made of a light weight balsa wood. I didn't really know if that was correct or not. I had always thought balsa was only grown in Africa.

Jay

[Alan M]

Hi Jay , the presentation box is made of Paulownia wood , which was originally native to China , and it is very light , fine-grained , soft and warp resistant , which is ideal for making chests or boxes etc. It is very fast growing also . These day`s they even use it to make surf boards !

[sitges1990]

Thanks Alan, I learn something new almost every time I log on to this forum. Now I know what Paulowina wood is. Thats what makes collecting fun.

Jay

[Alan M]

Thanks Alan, I learn something new almost every time I log on to this forum. Now I know what Paulowina wood is. Thats what makes collecting fun.

Jay

Hi Jay , i`m glad you enjoy it here , and i am happy if i can help