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

In good condition, a WW2 Japanese Army NCO's M1935 / Type 95 Shin Gunto & Knot; matching serial numbers.

The fact this gunto has its original sword knot means the sword was taken from a Japanese soldier; it is not a mass surrender item. So who knows the fate of that soldier. The saya / scabbard also has a specially adapted leather cover; it appears the soldier removed the lower length of leather covering but retained the upper part perhaps for better grip. The sword knot at some time became detached (the leather strap broke) and was glued together, then reattached to the sword's metal sarute loop with a key ring (the knot could easily be released, re-glued and properly reattached to the sarute loop if desired).

The 26 1/4 inch nagasa (cutting edge section) blade is in good condition with Kokura arsenal stamp plus serial number 135330. Blade firm in the hilt / tsuka. The painted aluminium / aluminum handle / tsuka has wear (paint loss) but is good. The saya / scabbard in very good shape with much war paint remaining except towards the drag were active service / combat wear has removed quite a bit. The sword sheathes and draws well; the locking mechanism works well.

A super example taken from the Japanese NCO it was issued to during the war. Yours for £? (too late, now sold). Please quote reference AE58 (0943). Further / full sized images available upon request.