Katana

[cpmil]

Can I please have some help with this katana. The overall length is 32 inches. Can you please:

1. Tell me what the figures on the tang say?
2. Is the numbering for an NCO sword?
3. Does the tsuba appear period to the sword?

Thanks, mark.

[cpmil]

2

[Stu W]

Hello Mark,

The views of others may differ but I doubt that is a period authentic Japanese sword.

Regards,
Stu

[Stu W]

Can I please have some help with this katana. The overall length is 32 inches. Can you please:

1. Tell me what the figures on the tang say?
2. Is the numbering for an NCO sword?
3. Does the tsuba appear period to the sword?

Thanks, mark.

Some thoughts as to why ...

Figures on nakago appear to be scratched rather than chiseled into the metal. They seem to mimic kanji but not in a way that leads me to believe they are correctly formed.

Type 95 NCO swords bear serial numbers on the blade rather than the Habaki. Type 94 and 98 Officer swords with brass tsuba are without serial numbers.

The pictured tsuba appears somewhat lopsided and lacking in detail.

These concerns, and others, lead me to think Chinese produced replica.

I hasten to add that I have been incorrect before so best to wait for others to comment,

Regards,
Stu

[cpmil]

Katana

Hi Stu. Any help is appreciated. Maybe others will also comment. Thanks, Mark.

[gunto]

China copy.

[BobI]

100% Chinese.
Best Wishes,
Bob

[cpmil]

Katana

OK thanks guys, mark.

[Paul G]

Some thoughts as to why ...

Figures on nakago appear to be scratched rather than chiseled into the metal. They seem to mimic kanji but not in a way that leads me to believe they are correctly formed.

Type 95 NCO swords bear serial numbers on the blade rather than the Habaki. Type 94 and 98 Officer swords with brass tsuba are without serial numbers.

The pictured tsuba appears somewhat lopsided and lacking in detail.

These concerns, and others, lead me to think Chinese produced replica.

I hasten to add that I have been incorrect before so best to wait for others to comment,

Regards,
Stu

Nice call Stu Spot on with your assesment!

PG-