Mongolia, Chinese Empire. An Association of Mongolian Nobility, Breast Badge, c.1911

Elliptical bronze badge with integral eyelet and ribbon suspension bar; the face white enamel within a black border, a cruciform device and circumscription in Chinese script above and Mongolian script centrally reading ‘Meng Gu Wang Gong Lian He Hui’ (Union of Mongolian Princes and Dukes) within a laurel wreath border; the reverse plain bronze with oxidisation marks lower right; height including suspension 69mm (2.71 inches), width 42mm (1.65 inches); on original ribbon and ribbon buckle, very fine.

Footnote: The Mongolian nobility came into being in the 10th century, became prominent in the 13th century, and effectively governed Mongolia until the early 20th century. The badge is for Mongolian nobility granted the continuance of their rights and privileges under the Chinese Favourable Treatment Act of 1912. For a similar example see American Numismatic Society Collection part 3, Morton and Eden, 26 April 2007, lot 188. The badge is rare.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.