Katana Civilian sword with military use WW2 #1

Description: This Katana came from a Marine veteran's estate. No information of where it was captured or when. 1942-1945? The sword predates WW2 however the blade has no markings but probably the maker mark was inked onto the tang and has since been worn away. Double blood grooves. There are two holes for the Mekugi (pin) and the blade has rust spots and pitting as shown. The overall motif is "Bamboo" which means "strength and flexibility" in the face of mortality. The Manuki (ornaments) are "Bamboo leaves". The Tsuba is gold Plum flower inlay of post Edo design with no tool holes. The forward Habaki ferule may be split as it is loose on the blade. Tsuba motif is mountains and pine woods. Ray skin covering is in excellent condition. Pommel cap is copper with plum motif while the Tsuba ferule is also copper with plum motif, Handle wrap shows a great deal of use with oil and dirt from handling. I would suppose it's use by an infantry officer. The leather-bound scabbard is very well worn and damaged with a period repair using friction tape, which was well done. There is no provision in the pommel for a sword knot ring. Overall, a nice example of a combat Katana that was captured or recovered from the field. 35 inches overall length. Tip to Tsuba is 25 inches. Thickness at ricasso is 5mm. Another collector estimated its age at around the 1400 era and had been longer but was shortened before 1875.

Price: 700 USD

Location: Reno, Nevada

End Time: 2025-01-19T17:54:14.000Z

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