China, Empire. A Precious Star (Pao Xing) Merit Medal Newly Listed 1882 on the obverse)

1882 on the obverse)

first being a SA policing unit

The black strapping is highlighted with aluminum and red stitching

A letter of recommendation (212x341mm

China, Empire. A Precious Star (Pao Xing) Merit Medal Newly Listed 1882 on the obverse)"Circular silver medal with stylised cloud suspension to top and bottom; the face with a central plain glass cabochon held by triangular prongs within a hammered circular border, surrounded by a stippled ground, a dragon to either side, Chinese characters above, all within a Greek key border; the reverse of similar design with a plain disc upper centre; diameter 39. 5mm, height 55mm; on an old plain red ribbon showing the marks of a French style