Japanese First National Census Commemorative Medal

Japan’s first nationwide census began on October 1, 1920, and a medal was created by Imperial Edict No. 272 on June 17, 1921, to honor “those who directly participated in the first national census” and “those who assisted in the first national census.”

The medal, made of dark bronze and measuring 33 mm, features on its obverse a chrysanthemum crest framing the figure of a local official from the Taika era (645 A.D.) holding a scroll representing a family register.

The reverse bears the inscription: “Taisho 9th Year / National Census / Commemorative Medal / 10th Month, 1st Day.”

The medal’s suspension includes a leaf-shaped grip and a bud-shaped ball, attached by a ring.

The ribbon, 33 mm wide, has 2 mm white edges with three equal stripes of purple, white, and purple.

The medal is in very good condition and comes with its original Paulownia wood case.

The 1920 census revealed that Japan’s total population was approximately 55.9 million people. This figure included Japanese citizens as well as residents from territories under Japanese control at the time, such as Korea and Taiwan.