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JAPANESE WWII ARMY SWORD - 20
The Samurai sword is one of the most desirable military collectibles in the market. Thanks to their use in movies and
television, the samurai sword has become a household name.
The sample shown here is a WWII Japanese Officer Samurai Sword. At one point these swords were not the most desirable. However,
in recent years they have gained popularity. This section of the website is dedicated to the discussion of the WWII era
Samurai sword.
Wrapping and menuki are cast-formed. Typical WWII Imperial Japanese Army style fittings.
Single suspension ring from the scabbard. It is said that during battle soldiers would not use the ring but rather would
stick the sword through the belt the same way the Samurai in the old days would.
The blade is this sample is in exceptionally good condition. This is a rarity among WWII brought back swords. The GI's
did not know how to treat the swords and the blades payed the price for it. Often times rusting or showing multiple finger
prints. In worst case scenarios they were sharpened.
The overall length of the sword is approximatelly 39 inches. The length of the blade, measured from the throat to the
tip is approximatelly 27.5 inches.
The sword was taken apart. The tang was signed on both sides. The following pictures show the signatures.
Notice that no arsenal markings are found.
The blade has a locking mechanism which attaches the sword to the scabbard. This prevents it from falling out in the heat of
battle. The locking machanism in this sample works great. Producing an audible "click" when the lock is engaged. The following
photos show the locking system in the sword itself and the receiving end in the wooden scabbard.
Care must be exercised when pulling the sword off the scabbard. A button must be pressed to disangaged the lock. Otherwise there
is a risk of breaking the mechanism.
The mountings are clear reflections of the Japanese imperial army. The Tsuba has the cherry blossoms in each corner. The menuki
also shows three of the same blossoms. The scabbard is made of wood and wrapped in leather.
The sword featured here has all matching numbered parts. This is very hard to find in a WWII period Samurai sword because over time
they are taken apart and the parts get lost. The consition of the blade and the fact that the parts are matching numebers are an
indication that the GI brought the sword back and put it away. It is difficult to find un-molested swords.
This is a WWII Japanese army officer sword. The blades on these swords can be machine made, which still involves several hand
steps, or 100% hand made - in the case of older swords.
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PRICING GUIDE INFORMATION
The following is an estimated value. Provided courtesy of MilitaryItems.com. The source for military antiques
and collectibles.
| Value (2006) | $2,000.00 |
| Availability (2006) | Hard to Obtain |
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