From the early 1900's until the end of WW2, Japan was engaged in numerous armed conflicts around the world.   There would be the Russo-Japanese war, WW1, the 1931 invasion of Manchuria and WW2.  The development of the Japanese Armed Forces during this period was an important part of the economic development of the Japanese Empire.  It also coincided with the gramophone era.  Japanese patriotism was reflected in the designs on needle tins, some showing military equipment and others military leaders.  The annexure of the 'puppet state' of Manchuria was a separate chapter of military history and there were many tins to commemorate this or acknowledge it in some way.  You can see these on the tins here showing the flag of Manchuria.