Medal commemorating Chinese Emperor Puyi and the founding of Manchukuo [obverse]
Silver metal, 4.5 cm dia., 1932
Private collection

A medal commemorating the establishment of Manchukuo in 1932, a Japanese puppet state in north-eastern China. The obverse features a portrait of Puyi, the last emperor of China, who was installed as Manchukuo’s ruler under Japanese control. The reverse bears an inscription marking the state's foundation. Issued during a turbulent period, the medal reflects Japan’s efforts to legitimise its occupation.