G'day all,
I've just joined the forum and posted an introduction in the new members area.
First a bit of history. My father served in the Australian Army in New Guinea during WWII and managed to aquire 2 x Japanese swords. One ...he took to Japan when he went there with BCOF (British Commonwealth Occupational Forces). I have never heard of what ever became of this sword but I don't think it returned to Aus with him.
The other, he sent home to North Queensland in Australia. This sword has been in our family ever since and now I am the custodian. I will pass it on to my grandchildren, and hopefully it will stay in my family which was my Father's wish. I would like to learn as much as possible about this sword so its history can also be passed down through my family.
Lets get to the sword.
From my limited research I believe it is a Katana in military mount. (Gunto) Possibly manufactured in late 1944-45. It has Mei on both sides of the tang and also a "star" stamp which I believe is a RJT (RIKUGUN JUMEI TOSHO) stamp. There is also a number stamp (406) stamped on tang and other fittings. (looks like 408 in the photo but it is 406) Is this an arsenal No. stamp?
I'll refrain from using the Japanese terminology until I'm a little more knowledgable.
Blade : KATANA
Length : 68.6 cm (27")
Condition : Good. (it has been kept with a coating of vaseline (petroleum jelly) for as long as I can remember. The blade has a couple of stain marks on it, probably from finger prints. No rust I can see and only a very small chip half way along the blade. You cant see the chip but you can feel it.
Handle : Timber, with cross hatch wrapping and at some time painted black.
Scabbard: I think timber, with either a thick lacquer coating or maybe ray skin covering. Dark brown in colour. It has a cloth wrapping which I think may hide some damage. i don't know who put on this wrapping.(ie: before or after my Dad aquired the sword) It has never been removed to my knowledge.
Fittings : Iron (slightly rusted)
Tassel : None.
Any infomation, opinions, translation of the Mei, where it was made and by whom would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance.
Peter C.