Japanese early third/middle pattern WWII Type 95 NCO shin gunto produced in early 1941. Prior to the attack on Pearl Harbour in December 1941, the Japanese government ordered that production of swords for the military be increased but that costs be cut and materials such as brass and copper be reserved for other war effort projects such as munitions.
This sword has a cast aluminium tsuka (hilt) with a 4mm thick plain iron tsuba (guard). The use of iron for the tsuba, along with the top latch for securing the sword in the scabbard identifies this as being a third, or middle pattern sword dating to early 1941. After mid-1941, the latch mechanism for securing the sword in the scabbard was moved to the side of the hilt.
The 67 cm (not including the blade collar) blade is in good condition with some shallow use-related scratches at the tip. The serial number 62233 and a Tokyo First Arsenal stamp are marked above the fuller. These early war production Type 95 Shin Gunto were carried by career soldiers, not conscripts and were considered by many as a primary weapon. The blade retains its fighting edge and has a few small edge nicks.
The cast aluminium hilt retains much of its original paint. The hilt is firm on the tang. The scabbard latch is in good condition and works well.
The non-matching numbered scabbard is in good condition, retaining over 75% of its original green paint. The scabbard is free from dents. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
Japanese WWII swords are amongst the most copied/faked of all swords and prospective buyers should beware.
This Type 95 is guaranteed to be genuine and is a good, honest example of a much sought after Japanese NCO’s sword that was carried and used by a career soldier in the Imperial Japanese Army.
£950.00
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