The Order of the Rising Sun was established in 1875 as Japan’s first national decoration and could be awarded to either military or civilian personnel for meritorious service. There were eight classes to this order, of which only the lowest two were given to enlisted personnel.

Produce during WWII or earlier, this medal the eighth of the eight classes is in the form of a three-lobed spray of silver Paulownia leaves. To the reverse is a row of four kanji characters which translate to “Order of Merit Decoration.”. The ribbon is folded with an alloy hook but the eye is missing. The medal shows light signs of age.