The Type 32 (Model 1899) had a machined blade and was manufactured at the Tokyo Hohei Kosho Arsenal. The sword saw service during the Russo-Japanese War, World War One and on into World War Two.
Two patterns of the Type 32 were produced. The first pattern, known as ‘Ko,’ was issued to cavalry troopers and had a blade length of around 830mm. The second pattern, known as ‘Otsu,’ was issued to army NCOs and was shorter, with a blade length of around 770mm.
This example is a good condition ‘Otsu’ pattern Type 32 infantry NCO’s sword.
The 770mm Katana profile blade has a single edge and long, narrow fuller below the flat spine. The slightly curved blade is in good condition. The ricasso is stamped with the serial number 92618.
Interestingly, the blade has been engraved with a matching serial number to that on the ricasso and also what appears to be the name of the soldier to which it was issued. The Japanese characters read Shinji Shamura. I have not seen this before on a Type 32 sword.
The steel D guard has a crosshatched steel back strap and dove head pommel and retains its leather finger loop. The crosshatched wooden grip is in good condition. The locking catch is present and strong. The front of the guard bears Tokyo arsenal and inspection stamps.
The sword is complete with its blackened steel scabbard with a single hanger-ring. The scabbard is in good condition with use-related dings. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard. The locking catch works perfectly.
This is an increasingly hard to find Imperial Japanese army NCO’s Type 32 sword in good, honest condition.
£450.00
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