In VGC, a WW2 Japanese Shin Gunto Katana with Superior Signed Blade and Sword Knot
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Not gendaito but above average showato (not mass produced). Signed Sukemitsu (blade smith), dated September 1943, with letter from The British Museum and details of the British officer said to have brought the sword back as a war trophy (see penultimate photo). This shin gunto has the original sword knot attached, so it is likely one taken off a surrendering / injured / captured / dead Japanese army officer, not a mass surrender end of war sword. Comes with second civilian tsuba and silk bag (not shown – likely purchases by the British officer).
Notes: There appears to be a (very feint) final Nagoya Arsenal inspection mark on the Nakago (blade tang), sort of confirming it is a special (not mass produced) blade solely fitted in gunto furniture / fittings by the Nagoya Arsenal. There absolutely is no Showa nor Seki mass produced stamp on the Nakago. It is akin to being Gendaito but without using top traditional tamahagane steel, which was in very very short supply in 1943. You can see signs of Hada and a clear hand forged hamon, but not to Gendaito levels.
The 26 1/4 inch nagasa (cutting edge section) blade is in very good condition (some light scuffs, staining, etc.). The tsuka (grip) is good but some shrinking of the same rayskin layer has occurred with a resulting small gap; the ito bindings are pretty much very good (slight gap in one section). Everything tight enough. The sword knot frayed and faded but sound to good. The saya / scabbard good but although it has a small retaining clip socket area, the sword itself (including tsuba) does not have a locking pin mechanism. The sword sheathes and draws well.
Quality shin gunto at an affordable price of was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference AH42. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 1792-118x15x14 (2.672)
