Japan, Imperial Japanese Army Veterinary Department Service Pin, Imperial Era/WWII

This is an authentic Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) Veterinary Department (Jūi-bu) service or association lapel pin, dating from the Imperial era (c. 1910s–1945). The badge is constructed from white metal and features a central kanji character “獸” (Jū), meaning “beast” or “animal,” which was the specific designation for the veterinary branch. This central motif is encircled by a horseshoe with raised stud details, symbolising the cavalry and animal transport services essential to the IJA. At the base are crossed branches, likely representing cherry blossoms or laurel, signifying honour and service. Such pins were typically worn by members of the veterinary corps or veteran associations. This item is unnamed and represents a specialised technical branch of the Japanese military during the First and Second World War periods.