A striking medal presented to the Chinese military leader Chiang Kai-shek (1887-1975) will auction on August 21 at the Collector's Series sale in Hong Kong.
The medal, known as the Order of Blue Sky and White Sun, was awarded to Chiang Kai-shek in 1930 after being instituted in 1929 by the Nationalist Government, who had recently established themselves in Nanking. It was seen as the highest military decoration awarded to any personnel and was given for distinguished achievements in defending the country against its enemies.
Chiang Kai-shek was at the time the head of state, as the leader of the Chinese Nationalist government. The medal was one of his favourites and was regularly worn alongside his Order of Brilliant Jade with Grand Cordon - the medal awarded only to the head of state.
 The medal features the characters "Special One" on its reverse |
Unlike all other "Blue Sky" medals, the reverse features the characters "Special One" in place of the usual numbering. This can be seen in well-known photographs of Chiang Kai-shek, where he deliberately wears the medal flipped over to display the unique engraving. An incredibly significant piece, it will sell with a HK$3m-5m ($386,741-644,577) estimate.
Collectors will have yet another chance to make some important additions to their collection in another Hong Kong sale of medals and coins, which will be held just two days later on August 23.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has an excellent selection of military collectibles currently available. This fantastic autograph from English military leader Oliver Cromwell provides a rare opportunity for collectors to own his signature and is wonderfully presented, making for a superb display piece.
