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, World War One and on into World War Two.
Two patterns of the Type 32 were produced. The first pattern, known as ‘Ko,’ was issued to cavalry NCOs 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 a great condition ‘Otsu’ pattern Type 32 army Non Commissioned Officer’s (NCO) sword.
The 772mm Katana profile blade has a single edge and long, narrow fuller below the flat spine. The blade retains its original leather washer and is in good condition with minimal age related marks and small, isolated spots of tarnish. The blade was service sharpened for 2/3 of its length. The ricasso is stamped with the serial number 32019. The blade was designed for cutting and thrusting and was superbly good at both.
The steel D guard has a checked steel back strap and dove head pommel in excellent condition. The checked wooden grip is in similarly excellent condition. The locking catch is present and strong. The front of the guard bears Tokyo arsenal and inspection stamps.
The sword is complete with its steel scabbard, with a single hanger-ring. The scabbard is in good condition with a few shallow dings towards the bottom. The show of the scabbard is stamped with the matching serial number 32019. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard. The locking catch works perfectly.
This is an increasingly hard to find Imperial Japanese Army NCO’s Type 32 sword with matching scabbard and in great, honest condition.
