A Japanese Civic Merit Medal with Case; Named

A Japanese Civic Merit Medal with Case; Named  - Blue Ribbon Merit Medal (Hosho) in Cased - Silver, clasp engraved with the recipient's name, 30.2 mm , on original ribbon with hook and eye, light contact, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, balsa wood frame, black lacquer finish, gilt characters on the lid, recessed medal bed, light contact, case also near extremely fine.   Footnote: The medal was established by Council of State Decree No. 63 in 1881, for award to persons who are distinguished by successful work in education, sanitation, charity, prevention of epidemics, establishment of schools and hospitals, building of roads and dikes, building and maintaining bridges, clearing of fields, forest culture, propagation of fish hatcheries, development of agriculture and commerce, and for those who work diligently in public enterprises, and until 1955 could also be awarded for merit in art and science.