TANTO WW2 Era

[SDM]

Found among my father's effects.  He was a corpman in WW2 on Okinawa, then as part of the occupation forces. Can someone help me with a translation and valuation?

[Ray Singer]

I suspect the original reading was 當麻 - Taima, however the kinpun-mei (gold lacquer inscription) has degraded over time. The blade predates World War II, and appears to be Edo period work. 

[Ray Singer]

It's simply not possible to give an estimated value based on this one photo alone, please show clear photos of the blade itself. 

[SDM]

Thank you.  I have no idea where my Dad would have picked up this item.  We heard, as kids, that he befriended a family (given them food and other items he had access to).  He had photos of him with this family.  Ive  added a photo of the blade.

Edited May 2, 2024 by SDM
Added photo

[Brian]

Appears to be a fairly decent antique piece. Keep the blade lightly oiled, don't use anything abrasive, and don't clean the tang. Needs further research but certainly not junk. Looks like a nice tanto!

[SDM]

22 hours ago, Ray Singer said:

I suspect the original reading was 當麻 - Taima, however the kinpun-mei (gold lacquer inscription) has degraded over time. The blade predates World War II, and appears to be Edo period work. 

 

20 hours ago, Brian said:

Appears to be a fairly decent antique piece. Keep the blade lightly oiled, don't use anything abrasive, and don't clean the tang. Needs further research but certainly not junk. Looks like a nice tanto!

Thank you both!