In good condition, a rare WW2 Japanese Army Officer’s Shin Gunto with earlier (Edo period) Yasutsugu (Shogunate) Blade.
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The mei reads “(Aoi Mon) Yasutsugu oite Echizen kore wo tsukuru” for the third generation Yasutsugu; the family authorized to use the Aoi-mon (Hollyhock crest of the Shogunate); read about the Yasutsugu school here. Edo period blade by a maker highly prized and sought after.
Yes, this is a very well made traditionally forged blade and if you want to understand the care, prestige and workmanship that went into it, the Aoi-Mon is carved, not stamped.
The 21 1/4 inch Nagasa (cutting edge section) blade is in good condition, clear hamon and hada, some very light surface rust patches and scuffs. The fittings / furniture all good except the saya (scabbard) has age and some light rust, plus is missing a couple of tiny screws. The sword sheathes and draws well, the locking pin mechanism works well..
Christies valued one of these blades at $20,000+ a few years back. This one is not papered or polished, but, if you spent the time and some money, you should easily quadruple the value of this sword /blade. A genuine investment at just was £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference number W98. Further / full sized pictures available upon request. Triangle 1227-105×15 (2.101)
