1 desirable Japanese World War II Takayama Forge Navy Officer's Samurai sword available.  This desirable katana was made by Hattori Masahiro.  This Japanese sword would make an important addition to any collection.

Swords made at the Takayama Forge are highly collectible.  In addition, Masahiro made swords in a distinctive 'old way'.  He made swords with a kissaki that is two times thicker at the mune than normal.  During World War 2, only Masahiro (at the Takayama Forge) made swords with this type of kissaki.  This type of sword tip was made to reduce the likelihood of a break or chip at the blade tip.  A sword made by Masahiro is very desirable.  

There are an unusually high number of kanji on the nakago.  There are 17 kanji on the tang.  The nakago/tang is signed 'Kin Saku Takayama to    Hattori Masahiro'.  The lower left side of the nakago is signed with the polisher's name.  The oil-tempered 'no rust steel' blade measures 24 1/8" (61.3 cm) from blade tip to notch in the blade spine.  The nakago has a Naval anchor stamp.  An additional distinguishing feature of a Masahiro blade is the distinctive ratio of nakago length to overall sword length.  

Masahiro was the ONLY Japanese WW2 swordsmith to make swords with these many distinguishing features.  

The tsuka has sharkskin under the silk wrap.  The saya is made of premium sharkskin as well.  

All fittings have matching assembly numbers.  The number stamped on each fitting is '528'.  

The sharkskin saya is beautiful with only an occasional scuff/scratch on its surface.  There is no rust, and there are no chips in the blade.  The tsuka/handle is in perfect condition.  




This rare Takayama Forge Japanese Naval Officer's sword by Masahiro, with its large number of kanji and thick bullnose kissaki, would make an important addition to any collection.