WW2 Japanese Naval Landing Forces Officers Kai-Gunto, Sold

A rare WW2 Japanese Naval Landing Forces Officers Kai-Gunto, single ashi, sword knot.

You can tell this is a genuine WW2 Japanese Naval Landing Forces Officers Kai-Gunto because it only has a single ashi (suspension loop) plus has a leather combat cover. This one was taken from the Japanese officer because it has the (remains of) original sword knot. Normally these sell for many thousands but this one is under £1000. Why? Because it has a serious number of nicks to the cutting edge. Being a landing forces gunto, this may be period but we suspect they are later.

The 25 5/8 inch nagasa (cutting edge section) unsigned blade is in very good condition except for the multiple nicks. This is a late war gunto as there is no same (ray skin) but rather a black pitch fabric tsuba base cover. The sword overall is aged but very good, though the sword knot is aged and depleted (worn, with loses). The leather saya is aged and worn; this sword saw active combat conditions and was likely taken by an allied soldier off a surrendering / injured / dead Japanese officer.

Landing force officer guntos are scarce nd prized by collectors. Except for the multiple nicks, this is a great example and well worth just £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number S78 (0708). Full sized / additional photos available upon request.