BACKGROUND: This type of rank insignia was buttoned to the cloth loops sewn on the shoulders of uniform tunics and overcoats, in use from at least the forty-fourth year of the "Meiji" period (being 1911), throughout the ensuing "Taisho" era, which began a year later, and into the "Showa" period. "Type 5" is in reference to the fifth year of the "Showa" era, which began in 1926, meaning that the date corresponds to the western calendar year of 1930. "Model 30" is often used interchangeably with the aforementioned designation. With the change in uniforms in 1938, this form of rank insignia was discontinued.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Red wool with a central gold tress with two gilt washed brass, five pointed stars affixed along its center. This configuration distinguished the wearer as being a Sergeant. To the reverse is a khaki button strap.