I BUY SWORDS AND WHOLE COLLECTIONS!

CONTACT US with any questions! 804  23 9  549 0

Item Description: I am pleased to offer this original hand-made heirloom Japanese army officers Samurai sword from World War 2. The blade represents the opportunity to own a historic Koto katana by the well-known swordmith Shimada Sukemune in WW2-era Shin Gunto mounts. The blade and the mountings are in Very Good condition. The sword has a blade length of 27 inches (69cm). The sword is well-constructed showing a wood grain itame that at time blends with a running masame. The hamon is a narrow hoso midare that is present the length of the blade ending in a maru boshi.

The tang is signed Sukemune.  It is ubu, or unshortened. Sukemune was a member of the well-known Shimada school that was an extension of the Soshu tradition of swordsmithing. Shimada swords were known for being strong and good for combat. They supplied many swords during the Sengoku period of warring states.

The mountings are Type 98 Shin Gunto and in Very Good condition. The tsuka is silk-cord wrapped with cherry blossom menuki. There is little to no fraying. The tsuba is classic WW2 with two accompanying metal seppa. The saya (scabbard) is wood lacquered black with a leather weathering cover. The end of the leather cover is torn and it shows some small areas of missing finish. The blade is in Very Good condition. There are some small nicks along the edge, some scattered small spots of rust, and some scattered scratches along the blades length. There are some lateral ware, including a couple in the kissaki. There are also some spots of coarse grain. There are no major flaws like hagire.

Given the age, history, workmanship, and reputation of the swordmsith, I think this piece would be a great addition for a collector of WW2 militaria or Japanese swords.

Terms and additional items: This item is original and not a knockoff or fake. The analysis regarding swordsmith listed above is my own and while I think I am accurate, I can not guarantee that aspect as I am not an expert from NBTHK. No reserve so please bid with confidence and let me know if you have questions. I can send additional detailed photos upon request. Payment is to be made within 7 days of auctions end. If payment is not received in 7 days we will re-list the item and file a non-paying claim with ebay. Bidders must be 18 years of age or older. We reserve the right to cancel unwelcome bids. This item is not for sale where prohibited. Please review the pictures closely and ask any questions before end of auction. More pictures are available and discounts after the auction closes are not supported or allowed. Bidder pays the shipping and insurance fees for USPS Priority within the U.S. and Express Mail International outside the U.S. Virginia residents are subject to 5.3% sales tax.

Thanks very much for the purchase! Please remember to leave positive feedback if you feel satisfied with your purchase. I will ship within 24 hours of payment.