Japan: Japanese Red Cross Society Gold Merit of Medal (Men’s Medal), housed in its original fitted case of issue.
Condition: Nearly Extremely Fine
The Japanese Red Cross Society's Golden Medal of Merit originated as an award- style badge established in 1885 as part of the Japanese Red Cross Society's award system , and remains the highest award given to this day. The Society's Articles of Incorporation are based on Article 7 of the Japanese Red Cross Society Law, and the Golden Medal of Merit is awarded in recognition of contributions such as volunteer activities, donations, and blood donations, as stipulated in Articles 17 and 18 of the Japanese Red Cross Society's Articles of Incorporation.
The criteria for the award of the Golden Medal of Merit are as follows: in the case of activities with the Red Cross Volunteer Corps, those who have served for 20 years or more are awarded a medal-style medal, a badge, and a certificate . In the case of donations, those who have contributed 500,000 yen or more in company funds (those who have donated one time or over several periods) are eligible. Individuals are awarded a medal-style medal, a badge, and a certificate, while corporations and organizations are awarded a plaque. The Golden Medal of Merit, awarded to members of the Red Cross Volunteer Corps who have served for many years, is also a plaque. Furthermore, those who have received the title of Honorary Member are awarded the Golden Medal of Merit along with the Honorary Member Medal.
In the case of blood donations, those who donate blood 100 times or more are awarded a cup-style medal ( golden glass cup) and a postcard-sized letter of appreciation. In the past, blood donors were also awarded a plaque-style "merit plaque." After the 100th donation, a plaque with an additional line (an arrow-shaped line added below the paulownia, bamboo, phoenix and red cross) was awarded for every 50 donations.
