Early Republic Military Decoration • Original Example
Key Information:
• Republic of China military order
• Order of the Striped Tiger – 虎章勳章 (Order of the Striped Tiger)
• 2nd Class Breast Star
• Silver multi-piece construction
• Multi-colored enamel rays
• Original pinback suspension
• Early Republic period decoration
• Weight approx. 102 g
• Approximate Size: 86.86 mm × 86.74 mm
Medal Design:
The decoration consists of a large multi-layer silver breast star with radiating enameled rays in red, blue, yellow, white, and black colors. The central medallion displays a seated tiger set against a green field and light blue sky background, symbolizing courage, strength, and military authority in traditional Chinese symbolism.
Above the central medallion are three silver stars forming part of the official design of the 2nd Class badge.
The reverse features Chinese inscriptions and classification cartouches typical for early Republic of China manufacture.
For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Reverse Inscriptions:
Chinese characters stamped on the reverse include:
虎章勳章
Translation: Order of the Striped Tiger
Character breakdown:
• 虎 – Tiger
• 章 – Decoration / Badge
• 勳章 – Order / Medal
Additional smaller cartouches appear to represent manufacturing and classification marks consistent with Republic of China period production. Exact workshop attribution cannot be confirmed but is stylistically correct for early ROC manufacture.
Condition:
Very good overall condition.
• Enamel well preserved with minor age wear
• No major enamel losses observed
• Natural silver patina present
• Reverse markings clear and well defined
• Pin, hinge, and catch fully functional
• No visible repairs or restoration
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Order of the Striped Tiger (虎章勳章 – Order of the Striped Tiger) was established in 1912 following the formation of the Republic of China. The decoration was awarded to recognize distinguished military service during the early Republican period including the Warlord Era and early Nationalist military campaigns.
The 2nd Class Breast Star represented one of the higher grades of the order and was typically awarded to senior officers and distinguished military personnel. Surviving examples remain highly sought after among collectors of Chinese militaria and early 20th century Asian decorations.
Summary:
An impressive and historically significant early Republic of China military decoration featuring detailed enamel work and strong display presence.
For the condition, please refer to the pictures.