Expo '70 keychain with mother-of-pearl cherry blossom – unworn on original card with seal of authenticity

The emblem of the 1970 Osaka World Expo, inlaid with genuine mother-of-pearl — unworn, on the original gold display card, complete with the official authenticity seal from the World Expo Association.

The card is printed with EXPO'70 · OSAKA JAPAN as well as the notation GENUINE Shell. The attached seal ("証紙") originates from the Japan Association for the 1970 World Exposition and bears the identifier EXPO'70 C.

The emblem and the material

The World Expo emblem—five circular segments forming a stylized cherry blossom around a central point—was designed by Ōtaka Takeshi and represents the five continents gathering around the host.

Here, it is not printed or enameled; instead, each of the five petals and the center are inlaid with a cut piece of mother-of-pearl. Mother-of-pearl refracts light in layers, causing the surface to shimmer between shades of rose, green, and silver depending on the viewing angle—an effect that no print can replicate. The background between the petals is finely guilloché-engraved, providing a matte contrast.

The attached seal is the real find: It was issued by the World Expo Association for approved souvenir items and confirms that this is a licensed product rather than a later reproduction. On the vast majority of surviving pieces, it has long since been lost.

Design

The pendant consists of the flower-shaped medallion, a chrome-plated snake chain, and a lobster clasp. The settings for the mother-of-pearl inlays are neatly crafted, distinguishing the individual petals from one another.

The display card itself is part of the object: printed in gold, with Japanese and English labeling, and a vacuum-formed plastic tray in which the pendant sits.

Dating

1970, for the World Expo in Osaka.

Condition

The pendant is unworn and remains in its original position on its display card. The mother-of-pearl inlays are complete, undamaged, and free of cloudiness; the chrome plating shows no abrasion.

The card shows signs of storage consistent with its age: rubbed edges, creases at the bottom corner, and slight discoloration. The clear plastic cover is present and slightly clouded. The authenticity seal is attached and fully legible.

The actual condition is shown unretouched in the product photos.

Technical specifications

• Occasion: 1970 Osaka World Expo (Expo '70), licensed souvenir with authenticity seal EXPO'70 C
• Motif: World Expo emblem, design by Ōtaka Takeshi
• Material: Chrome-plated metal with genuine mother-of-pearl inlays
• Medallion diameter: approx. 3.5 cm
• Weight including original packaging: 14 g
• Dating: 1970
• Origin: Japan
• Condition: Unworn on original card

For whom?

For collectors of World Expo memorabilia who value the packaging as much as the object itself. For enthusiasts of 1960s and 1970s Japanese graphic design. And as a small gift with a story that can be told in two sentences.

Warranty (used goods)

This is a used item. The limitation period for claims for defects under the statutory warranty is 12 months from delivery.