Japanese 1874 Formosa/Taiwan Expedition Meiji 7 War Medal- 925 Silver Replica Repro Copy

Replica Japanese 1874 Formosa/Taiwan Expedition Medal – Meiji 7 War Medal – 925 Silver

This replica medal commemorates Japan’s first overseas military campaign of the Meiji era — the 1874 punitive expedition to Taiwan, China (Formosa) following the Mudan Incident of 1871, in which 54 Ryūkyū sailors were killed by Paiwan aborigines.

Historical Background:

• In May 1874, Japan dispatched 3,600 troops under the command of Saigō Tsugumichi.

• Engagements included the Battle of Stone Gate on 22 May 1874.

• After military action and negotiations, the China Qing government agreed to pay 500,000 taels in compensation.

• Japanese forces withdrew in December 1874.

• The medal was formally established in April 1875 and awarded to both military personnel and civilian participants who contributed to the campaign.

Design & Materials:

• Material: 925 sterling silver

• Obverse: “War Medal” inscription with paulownia motif

• Reverse: “Meiji 7 / Year of the Dog – 1874”

• Ribbon: White with green edges

• Suspension bar: “Taiwan” inscription

Size & Weight:

• Medal diameter: 25 mm (≈0.98 in)

• Overall length (with ribbon & bar): 90 mm (≈3.54 in)

• Weight: ≈23.9 g (≈0.84 oz)