WWII Imperial Japanese China Medal 1940 Anniversary Southern Expedition Ukai

Rare original commemorative badge from the Imperial Japanese Army, issued for the "Southern China Dispatch Ukai Unit" and "Dongwan Garrison" to mark the 2600th Anniversary of the Imperial Era (1940). The badge displays the characters ("Koa" or "Greater East Asia"), symbolizing Japan's wartime ideology of "Asia Rising Together"-a slogan used during the 1930s-1940s to promote Japanese-led unity in East Asia. The monument depicted is likely a memorial or a symbol related to their service in occupied China. ("Southern China Dispatch") = Refers to Japanese Army units dispatched to southern China during the Second Sino-Japanese War. ("Ukai Unit") = "Ukai" could refer to a codename or nickname of a specific military unit; sometimes units used bird names, and "ukai" literally means "cormorant fishing, " but here it's likely a unit designation.

("2600th Anniversary Commemoration") = In 1940, Japan celebrated what it considered the 2600th anniversary of the founding of the Imperial line (Jimmu Tenno). ("Dongwan Garrison") = Refers to the Japanese garrison stationed in Dongwan (possibly modern Dongguan or related area) in southern China during the occupation period. This badge is a direct witness to the Imperial Japanese Army's activities in China, carrying both a powerful propaganda slogan ("Koa") and the names of specific military units involved in the occupation. Badges like this are rare, especially with engraved unit names and anniversary dates. The wear and patina are part of its original history.

A tangible piece of wartime history-perfect for collectors, researchers, or anyone interested in WWII and East Asian history. Own a Piece of History.

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