The Type 32 (Model 1899) had a machined blade and was manufactured at the Tokyo Hohei Kosho Arsenal. The sword saw service during the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905), World War One (1914-1918) and on into World War Two (1939-1945).
Two patterns of the Type 32 were produced. The first pattern, known as ‘Ko,’ was issued to cavalry troopers and had a blade length of around 830mm. The second pattern, known as ‘Otsu,’ was issued to army NCOs and was shorter, with a blade length of around 770mm.
This example is an ‘Otsu’ pattern Type 32 infantry NCO’s sword.
The 770mm Katana profile blade has a single edge and long, narrow fuller below the flat spine. The slightly curved blade is in good condition with small areas of very shallow pitting and sharpening scratches along the cutting edge. The ricasso is stamped with the serial number 62939.
The steel D guard has a crosshatched steel back strap and dove head pommel. The hilt retains its original finish. The crosshatched wooden grip is in good condition. The locking catch is incomplete. The front of the guard bears Tokyo arsenal and inspection stamps.
The sword is complete with its blackened steel scabbard with a single hanger-ring. The scabbard is in fair condition with numerous use-related dings. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is an increasingly hard to find Imperial Japanese army NCO’s Type 32 sword in good, honest condition.
£350.00
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