This lot features two unique medals from Thailand and Laos, each with distinct historical and cultural significance.
1. Thailand: Order of Rama, 6th Class
Origin: Thailand.
Occasion: Part of the Order of Rama, awarded to military personnel and civilians for distinguished service to the King and Kingdom.
Class: 6th Class.
Dimensions: 42.33 mm (height) x 28.78 mm (width)
Significance:
Recognizes exceptional service and loyalty to the kingdom.
Reflects Thailand’s rich tradition of royal and military honors.
Condition:
Medal dimensions and details suggest it retains its design integrity.
2. Laos: Order of Civic Merit, Commander Class (1950)
Origin: Laos.
Occasion: Established on November 20, 1950, by Royal Ordinance No. 186, during the era of the Royal Lao Government.
Dimensions: 66.60 mm (height, including suspension) x 33.50 mm (width).
Design Features:
Obverse:
Central figure depicts Hanuman, the King of the Monkey Army, clutching a sword. Hanuman is a revered figure in Southeast Asian culture, symbolizing courage, loyalty, and strength.
Background features red enamel, representing bravery and honor.
The medal is surrounded by a frieze of small ribbon-like protuberances, with a Royal Lao Crown suspension at the top, highlighting the monarchy's authority.
Reverse:
Plain, with no additional design, measuring 34 mm across.
Eligibility:
Awarded to civil officials and military officers for meritorious and courageous service to the State.
Status:
Still awarded by the Royal Lao Government in Exile, maintaining its symbolic value despite the dissolution of the monarchy.
Comparison and Significance
Order of Rama, 6th Class (Thailand):
Highlights Thailand’s long-standing tradition of royal and military recognition.
Symbolizes loyalty and service to the King and nation.
Order of Civic Merit, Commander Class (Laos):
A visually unique medal celebrating bravery and meritorious service.
Rich in cultural symbolism, featuring Hanuman and the Royal Lao Crown.
This lot of two medals offers a compelling representation of the rich cultural and military histories of Thailand and Laos:
The Order of Rama embodies Thai royal tradition and recognition of service.
The Order of Civic Merit from Laos is a striking piece that reflects courage and loyalty, deeply rooted in Southeast Asian mythology and the era of the Lao monarchy.
Both medals are excellent for collectors interested in Asian royal decorations, cultural history, and military awards.