WW2 JAPANESE OFFICERS SWORD WITH SIGNED TANG
I have had this sword inspected by WA's leading authority on Japanese swords George Trotter who has described the sword signature as follows:
The small line of writing says
KANETSUGU (smith name), MAEGAWA (family name) and GENICHI (personal name) started as a smith Showa period 14th year, 10th month, 26th day (26/10/1939).
The article with his photo says the same, gives his address etc, teacher and some details…this comes from a Japanese sword book of 1942 called
Dai Nihon Token Shoko Meikan (Great Japan Sword Business Compilation).
The sword is partly traditionally made/but from modern steel. The swordsmith KANETSUGU must have been above average to be included in this book as an article.
A good example of early WWII sword quality.
Regards,
George.
This word was a veteran bring back as are most WW2 Japanese Officers swords that are in Australia. This sword is in untouched condition. The sword has a very nicely pronounced wavy Harmon. The scabbard is showing signs of field use.