Watch List notes:

PHILIPPINES. Japanese Occupation. Bronze Tirad Pass Medal, 1944. By: C. Zamora. NGC Unc Details--Reverse Scratched.
Honeycutt-330; Basso-168. Obverse: Bust of General Gregorio Del Pilar with a view of Tirad Pass in the background. Lower uniform has initials J.P.L. 1944; Reverse: "TIRAD PASS MEDAL" above, leaves below inscription. Light pin scratches in the reverse fields as noted on the NGC insert hardly distracting. Despite its shortcomings an attractive high grade example. An EXTREMELY RARE and highly sought after issue certain see spirited bidding.

According to Honeycutt this is the only military medal or decoration issued by the Philippine government during the Japanese occupation. Many were destroyed after the war by their recipients so as not to be identified as serving in the military under the Japanese occupiers. He goes on to say that he estimates the approximate survival rate of these issues is about 15 pieces.

From the Pasig River Collection.

Estimate: $1000.00- $1500.00