WW2 Japanese Army Officer's Shin Gunto & Knot, Sold

In overall good condition, an unsigned WW2 Japanese Army Officer's Shin Gunto & Knot.

The sword knot means this gunto was taken off an officer (post Japanese surrender sword had their sword knots removed by the officers to preserve some honour); this can mean it was taken off an injured or killed in action Japanese officer. The blade is unsigned with no Showa stamp and it is difficult to determine if it is Gendaito or Showato. The blade has been field sharpened.

The 22 5/8 inch Nagasa (cutting edge section) blade is in good condition but some light rust patches and has been overly buffed (as opposed to polished), with only small sections of a straight hamon showing. The blade has also been fairly crudely / field sharpened. If Gendaito, we believe it would be possible for an expert polisher to bring out the best in this blade. If Showato, then probably not worth the investment in a polish (most polishers would examine a blade without charge). The fittings are generally very good. The sword sheathes and draws well.

A good shin gunto made more valuable by the sword knot / fact it was likely taken off a Japanese officer, not one mass surrendered at the end of the war. Yours for £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference R27 (0491). Further / full sized images available upon request.