Order of Freedom & Independence 1st Class – Type 1

Description

Up for offer is an extremely rare Order of Freedom & Independence 1st Class, Type 1 Screwback.

Serial № 3427. It is unfortunately unknown who this Order was awarded to, but it is a good specimen to try and research. This example’s serial number is significantly lower than that of the three examples observed in Warren E. Sessler’s book (Serial №  3956, 3967, and 3974). Less than 5000 1st Class Screwbacks were produced in total, with 98 awarded to North Koreans and approximately 126 to the Chinese during the Korean War as per government sources, making this an extremely desirable piece in any person’s collection.

Condition of this Order is excellent, though there are some noticeable chips in the enamel (bottom right of the top banner and lower right arm of the star). There are also some scratches and dings to the body itself, but nothing majorly damaging to the appearance. The reverse is in very good clean condition, though with some visible scratches. Please refer to the photos.

Order of Freedom & Independence 1st Classes were only awarded to division, brigade, and combined guerrilla unit commanders. Third photos shows Korean People’s Army General Ryu Kyongsu (류경수) and the fourth photo shows Chinese People’s Liberation Army Major General Huang Wenming (黄文明) with this medal.