1 difficult to find Japanese model 1883 Naval Kyu-Gunto Samurai Officer's sword. This rare Imperial Japanese Navy Officer's katana would make an important addition to any collection.
A sword in model 1883 Naval Kyu-Gunto sword mounts is rare. An example in exceptional condition is extremely difficult to find. The Naval mounts on this sword are mint. Of Kyu-Gunto mounted swords--just 1 in 40, or 1 in 50 is in Naval mounts--all others are Army. A sword like this does not come on the market very often.
Photos from reference books with information on the model 1883 Naval Kyu-Gunto have been provided in this listing. Two photos of Naval Officers are provided from Jim Dawson's book, Swords of Imperial Japan 1868-1945--Cyclopedia Edition. Note in the caption under one of the photos that the Rear Admiral (Flag Rank) in the photo is posing with his standard 1883 series Officer model sword. The authorization for a special Flag Rank sword was cancelled in 1914. So the sword in this listing was authorized to be carried by Admirals as well.
The sword blade dates to the Russo Japanese War. The nakago/tang is unsigned. The blade measures 25" (63.5 cm) from blade tip to notch in the blade spine. This sword has a desirable, perfectly executed wavy hamon.
A horn mekugi holds the tsuka/handle to the blade.
The sharkskin-covered saya is very fine. All fittings are gilted in gold.
This rare Japanese model 1883 Naval Kyu-Gunto Samurai Officer's sword is in exceptional condition. The mounts are in mint condition.
The hamon and boshi are perfectly healthy. This sword is guaranteed against fatal flaws. The blade has occasional finish scratches. There are 5 small nicks in the blade edge. There is also an occasional cut on the blade spine from a sword strike. With its nearly perfect condition koshirae, a polish would make this sword absolutely perfect.
The saya finish is mint. The locking mechanism works perfectly.
| Specific Name | Specific Value |
|---|---|
| Period | Late 19th Century through World War 2 |