The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2300a:
Description
This unique lot features a Communist-era Romanian “RPR” (Republica Populara Romîna) lapel pin alongside a fascinating 1953 Japanese document listing Western names in both English and Katakana. The pin, likely from the early 1950s, is crafted from gold-toned metal with red enamel accents, showcasing the iconic hammer and sickle within a radiant sunburst and wheat wreath. The accompanying document appears to be a Christmas and New Year greeting list from “Numajiri Chojuro,” from 1953. It lists various Western individuals—likely members of the Allied occupation forces, diplomats, or international relief workers—paired with their phonetic Japanese Katakana transcriptions. This was a common practice for high-ranking Japanese officials to maintain “soft power” and build rapport with Westerners during the transition to Japanese sovereignty. The name Numajiri Chojuro (?? ???) is quite significant. He was a prominent figure in Japanese cultural and civic life during the mid-20th century. Most notably, he is recognized for his involvement in international relations and cultural exchange programs during the post-WWII occupation and recovery era. The document appears to be an official Christmas and New Year’s Greeting List from 1953. It lists various Western individuals—likely members of the Allied occupation forces, diplomats, or international relief workers—paired with their phonetic Japanese Katakana transcriptions. This was a common practice for high-ranking Japanese officials to maintain “soft power” and build rapport with Westerners during the transition to Japanese sovereignty. The pin shows minor surface wear and oxidation on the reverse, while the document exhibits typical age-related yellowing and horizontal creasing. Document H 12.5″, W 18.5″, D 0.25″. Badge H 1.75”, W 1.75”, D .5”. Please see photos.
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