China, Republic. An Order of the Golden Grain, II Class Star

(Chia ho). Instituted in 1912. Three-piece construction, insignia in silver gilt with red, black, white, yellow, light blue, dark blue, light green and dark green enamels, the centrepiece insignia illustrating five wheat stalks surrounded by a ring containing a series of red, blue, white and yellow dots representing the colours of the Republic of China, the insignia backed by an eight-pointed silver gilt star, all of which is mounted to an eight-pointed silver star base, each star point with five faceted rays, Chinese character stamp representing the Order of the Golden Grain on the reverse, measuring 84.3 mm (w) x 84.8 mm (h), vertical pinback, the insignia having been turned ninety degrees clockwise versus its original position, intact enamels, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, black and white fabric exterior on five sides, maroon paper bottom, vertical red silk banner affixed to the lid bearing the name and grade of the order in gold-colored ink, inside lid in red silk and padded, recessed medal bed in red felt, push release, measuring 102 mm (w) x 142 mm (h) x 38 mm (d), exhibiting slight wear in the fabric overlying the hinged area, case also near extremely fine.