Original Item: Only One Available. This is an original WWII Japanese two-flag grouping consisting of an Imperial Japanese Army-pattern Rising Sun war flag together with a traditional Japanese Hinomaru national flag, commonly referred to by collectors as a “meatball” flag. Together, the two make an excellent display of two of the most recognizable Japanese flag designs associated with the Second World War.

The larger and more visually striking of the pair is the Rising Sun flag, featuring a central red sun surrounded by sixteen radiating red rays against a white field. The centrally positioned sun is characteristic of the pattern associated with the Imperial Japanese Army, differing from the familiar Imperial Japanese Navy ensign, which used an offset sun. The Rising Sun flag is constructed from rayon and features triangular brown leather reinforcements at the corners. One corner retains its original suspension cord. These reinforced corners would have helped protect the relatively delicate fabric when the flag was tied or displayed.

Also included is an original Japanese Hinomaru national flag, displaying the familiar red sun disc centered on a white field. Unlike the many wartime Japanese flags encountered with handwritten patriotic slogans, signatures, or good-luck messages, this example remains undecorated, preserving the clean and immediately recognizable appearance of the Japanese national flag. The Hinomaru is made from very fine silk and is similarly fitted with a brown leather corner reinforcement and suspension cord, construction details commonly seen on period Japanese flags.

Both flags show age and handling consistent with wartime textiles. The white fields have naturally mellowed over time and exhibit scattered staining, discoloration, and areas of toning. Numerous old folds, wrinkles, and creases remain from decades of storage, while the leather corner reinforcements show mild surface wear and scuffing. The suspension cords have likewise developed appropriate age discoloration. Importantly, the red coloration remains strong, particularly on the Rising Sun flag, giving both pieces excellent visual presence despite their expected wartime and postwar storage wear.

Rising Sun Flag: 27.7” * 33.5”
Hinomaru Flag: 37.5” * 27.5”