Picked Up Nco Sword From Auction

[Ontario_Archaeology]

I was browsing around the usual auction sites for an NCO and picked this up for what I think is a cheap price. The pictures provided were not the greatest but I took a chance. The paint looked good so I think it is worth it. Someone may have had their fun cutting fruit with this one looking at the blade. To my disappointment there are no numbers on the scabbard to match the ones on the blade. Looking for other opinions.

 

Thanks,

 

Matt

[Shamsy]

What sort of opinion are you after exactly? It's a Type 95 in good condition. There's nothing more to add really.

[Edward S]

Hi Matt,

 

If this post is for me, my opinion for what it’s worth is:- This NCO sword looks to be genuine and in good condition, if you picked it up for a very good price then I personally think you should be happy with it. In the UK this would sell for £400 - 600 via a dealer. Copper handled NCO swords can fetch up to £1200 - 1500 believe it or not with low serial numbers and in good condition.

 

As for the painting of the tsuka, I have seen that quite a few times so is not unusual. As for the lack of a serial number on the scabbard, a purist would have a problem with that, but if you paid little for ir it, the scabbard looks right to me so just enjoy it.

 

In terms of other options, if Gunto is your interest, look for an Officers sword next, there are dozens of variants and a good area of study.

 

Edward S.

[Ontario_Archaeology]

I was worried about the scabbard not having any numbering on it at all. Maybe a little more insight on the damage to the blade.

 

Thanks,

 

Matt

[Bruce Pennington]

Matt, it’s not uncommon to see non-matching sets. As to no number at all, I have a copper-handled 95 whose saya has no numbers. It’s the right saya for a copper and a perfect fit. No way to know how that happens, but my theory is battle damage to the original saya, and factory or field repair team replaced.

[Edward S]

I’m with Bruce on the scabbard. As for the blade, don’t forget these swords are functional and were issued with the intention that they will be used in battle. There are accounts of these swords being used to cut through barbed wire etc. I do not think the damage you show detracts from its history or value. This is a nice machine made blade in original polish with possible war damage, I would say leave it as it is. Just my opinion.

 

Edward S

[Ontario_Archaeology]

Thank - you for your help! Bruce I have seen pictures of your collection of NCO's it is very impressive!

 

Everyone here is very helpful.

 

Matt

[Shamsy]

Serial numbers are sometimes removed from swords too. I have no idea why, only a few theories.