WW2 Japanese Army NCO's Shin Gunto Katana (Sold)

In good condition, a guaranteed authentic Imperial Japanese army NCO's shin gunto with original sword knot.

First, this is guaranteed to be an authentic WW2 Imperial Japanese NCO's shin gunto; be warned, the vast majority of these swords on the market are reproductions; this is 100% genuine.

Second, this shin gunto was taken from a Japanese soldier; it is not one from a warehouse of mass surrendered weapons. You know this from the fact it has the original leather sword knot still attached. Mass surrender swords had their sword knots removed to lessen the disgrace of surrendering without a fight / death. It is said this sword was taken from an Imperial Japanese Non-Commissioned Officer at Changi POW camp near Singapore. If true, he must have been very popular with allied soldiers.

Matching serial number 53974 on both the blade and scabbard throat, plus Kokura arsenal stamps. Correct markings to the brass fuchi. The sarute loop the correct size. The bohi groove to the blade the correct distance from the habaki. All confirm 100% authentic.

The 27 1/4 inch (including habaki) blade is in very good condition and is firm in the hilt. The aluminium hilt with some remnants of the original brass coloured paint. The swords sheathes and draws well, the locking mechanism works but has lost some of its springiness, so the pin does not locate without help. The leather sword knot is kind of frail for sure, but fairly sound and can be preserved. The knot has been tied incorrectly at some stage - I have not redone it simply as I do not want to risk damaging any leather. The scabbard is aged but in good sound order. A well above average item and a solid investment. Further / full sized pictures available upon request. Please quote item reference number B24.