December, 1941 Dated Signed Japanese Navy Officer Kai Gunto Sword with Knot
$1,500.00
The Kai gunto Imperial Navy officer’s sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 39 inches, with a blade length of approximately 25 inches. The blade exhibits some relatively minor signs of age, with spots, scratches and surface dirt, but it is generally very clean and quite bright, while displaying a visible and distinct temper line. The tang has a single mounting hole and it is signed “Yoshimitsu” and it is dated “Showa 16 [1941], December”. “Yoshimitsu’s” legal name was “Yabushita Fujio”, and he entered the Seki Guild Log on April 1 of 1940. The tang also bears a small quality control stamp of the Seki Sword Guild as well as painted numbers relating to the assembly of the sword. The grip is covered in dark dyed sharkskin, and it is tightly wrapped in the traditional manner with golden brown fabric. Beneath the fabric on each side of the grip are the standard military menuki of three cherry blossoms, with a toned gilt finish. The tsuba guard is the solid iron style. The scabbard exhibits scuffs and age but it is in very good condition. Tied to the hilt of the sword is the Navy officer’s chocolate brown colored knot. Overall the sword is in excellent condition.
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