Desirable World War II-era (circa 1943-1944) 'Type 98' Shin Gunto Japanese Imperial Army officer's ceremonial sword, measuring 38″ long, featuring a dulled steel blade, painted tsuba, ray-skin handle with cloth wrapping, and two brown tassel cords, indicating it was for use by a sergeant or corporal. The scabbard is painted wood, with painted brass decoration and a single mounting point; the use of cheaper materials, such as wood (rather than metal) and cloth wrappings (rather than silk) date the sword to later in the war, as materials became scarce and expensive.
Provenance: Conflicts of the 20th Century, Bonhams, January 2021.
