Rand

Thank you for your input. Like I said, I know nothing about it so I'm interested in finding out all I can. With that said, and my memory is quite hazy as I received this from him 25 years ago, I remember him telling me that he got it from a Japanese officer whilst stationed in Osaka, and he mentioned that I shouldn't take the tassel off or untie the knot because it is valuable. It had been on my grandfather's wall from as far back as I could remember, even as a kid. I always oogled it when I was there which is why he gifted it to me.

Thank you very much! I had no idea that mine was anything special beyond being in a bit better shape than other's I've seen. My grandfather kept his prized possessions in immaculate shape and I've kept it wrapped up in a closet since I got it. Which part is the family emblem? the little square with the three squares in it? Is there a way to trace which family gifted this to my Grandpa? What is the symbol that is on the hilt next to the blade? Is that the maker's emblem?

Hello, I'm trying to get a little info on my Kyu Gunto. (A name hitherto unknown to myself until today). It belonged to my grandfather, who was a captain in the US Navy. It was given to him as a gift after he was stationed in Osaka sometime after WW II had ended. I know absolutely none of the terminology associated with these swords so any help would be appreciated. Attached are pictures of the sword and I can post more if needed. Thanks! Rand