Republic of South Vietnam (1955-1975): National Order of Vietnam. 5th Class Knight. Breast badge. Gilt & enamel. Circa 1955-1975

Dimension: Approximately 41mm

A very good contemporary gilt and enamel issue of Vietnamese craftsmanship

The riband fitted with a crimp brooch. The brooch with 2 x pin-posts & clutch-back disc fittings as issued. The brooch with suppliers hallmark 'MC 767 H24'. This denotes United States Marine Corps supplier 'Hilborn-Hamburger/Imperial' of Passaic, NJ

For an identical, contemporary piece, see the item held in the collection of the Australian War Memorial (Acquisition reference number RELAWM41029.004)

The National Order of the Republic of Vietnam was frequently bestowed upon Allied personnel from amongst the coalition of countries that contributed military personnel in support of the Republic of Vietnam during the long running Vietnam War. As an example it is recorded (ref 'Medals to Australia' third edition (Williams, 1990) that Australian personnel were decorated with the below numbers and grades of awards;

- 4th Class: x 6 (all to Australian Army)
- 5th Class: x 12 (11 to Army & 1 to the Australian Air Force)

Scarce found of such high quality - a choice item

Condition: EF

Code: 23725