Lot 601: 1942 Japanese Shin-Gunto Sword, Signed Koa Isshin, Mantetsu

WWII Japanese Shin-Gunto Sword, Signed Koa Isshin, made with Mantetsu steel. The tang is signed "Koa Isshin" and "Mantetsu Kin Saku" (Mantetsu made this); the opposite side bears the zodiac cycle date "Showa Mizunoe-Uma haru", or Spring of 1942. This dating method was used almost exclusively on swords with Koa Isshin Mantetsu signatures. "Koa Isshin" can be roughly translated to "Asia – One Heart", an apt patriotic slogan for Japan during this period. The edge of the tang also bears an RA production number 1027. The mountings are WW II shin-gunto military mounts, with ray skin grip wrapped in silk threads, and tsuba with five petal flowers. The overall length of the weapon is 40 1/4" L. "; the length of the blade (Nagasa) is 27". Sheathed in period saya (scabbard) with tassels, and silk sheath. Accompanying the sword is a signed, typewritten note dated January 17th, 1946, authorizing the removal of "captured enemy material". Note: The South Manchuria Railway Company (Mantetsu) steel was developed at the Dairen Manchurian Railroad Factory beginning in September of 1937, and was made specifically for the production of sword blades. They were successful in making steel that was close to pure iron. A sword factory was established and production begun in November of 1937.

CONDITION: Very good overall condition, components fit snugly, unpolished.