Axe-form Launching Medal for Japanese Cruiser Haguro

Description:

Axe-form Launching Medal for Japanese Cruiser Haguro, c. 1925-30, lg. 5 1/2 in.

Note: The Japanese ship Haguro began construction at the Mitsubishi shipyard in 1925. It was launched in 1928 and commissioned to the Imperial Navy in 1929. At the launching of a ship, there is a ceremonial ship launching which incorporates silver axes which are thought to bring good luck and scare away evil. Japanese shipbuilders traditionally order the crafting of a special axe for each new vessel and after the launching ceremony, they present the axe to the vessel's owner. The axe is used to cut the rope which tethers the ship to the place where she was built.
Estimate $200-400


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