Awards and medals of the world are to go up for sale in May, courtesy of Switzerland's La Gallerie Numismatic.
From all round any countries are represented, from Belgium to Egypt and from the Ivory Coast to Mongolia. However, some of the most interesting pieces for collectors of rare and historic medals come from China.
Two lots stand out in particular: Firstly, a very rare and beautiful enamelled silver gilt badge depicting turquoise dragons, hung from a silk cord - the Order of the Double Dragon.
Although a Chinese award (of the first class, first degree) with Chinese inscriptions, it was actually made in Europe, and has been extremely well preserved. Bids start at €4,500.
 Order of the Double Dragon |
The second piece, for which bids open at €5,000 is a set of four documents (including the original expedition envelope) awarding a gold medal 1st Class, to an Austrian Captain. The text is in Chinese, though with a small translation into French.
The documents are in almost perfect condition, and any collector would be happy to have them presented in a display case as they are very attractive.
Chinese collectibles are tending to see increasing prices at the moment, making these pieces good candidates for investment.
The auction takes place in Vienna, Austria on Sunday, May 16, but bids can be placed online until the day before.
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