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Lot 2240A

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WWII Japanese Army Signed Shin Gunto Sword

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WWII Japanese Army signed Shin Gunto Sword Army Officer Shin Gunto signed “KANEZANE” (see pgs 76-77 Modern Japanese Sword Smiths 1868-1945 John Slough)

A square Showa Era stamp is above the inscription. The reverse Nakago (tang) is blank, but does have four black painted Kanji which might signify 1557. Perhaps even a production number. The Tang has slanted faint file markings (taka no ha) done in an upper left to lower right pattern. This sword has a very nice quality blade whose curvature is deep and culminates in a medium point. It presents a balanced and graceful feel when held. The Nagase (length) of the blade from Muni Machi (back notch) to Kissaki (tip) is 24 1/8 inches. The width from the Muni Machi edge to the Habaki edge is 13/16 inches. The Habaki is silver coated and fully intact. It has some worn areas but this does not attract from overall appearance. The bright blade is polished about 90% and has a pronounced Gunome (irregular zig zag) temper line. The pattern is clearly visible throughout the blade right to the point. There are no flaws other than some very light in/out Scabbard scratches with could easily be polished out. The Tsuba (guard) is a very solid, better quality cast with fine detail, excellent gold color. There are three Seppa to each side, the center one being a thick high quality brass affair and all parts are numbered (12) This is to insure a precise fit. The sword retain in the scabbard is held by a brass button, however it does not hold very tightly. All handle and scabbard fittings are done in a brown matte finish with gold wash highlights. The scabbard has retained 99% of its army green covering and has no dents. The Tsuka (handle) has a clean and high nodule Ray skin covering. The handle tape is typical army brown with no issues. The Imperial Sakura (cherry blossom) Menuki is in a gold wash. The Saru-te (tassel loop) is washed in fine gold as well and completes this assembly. All outside features of this piece show very little wear and is an outstanding example of a WWII Army Shin Gunto.

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