Ontario_Archaeology

I think in Bruces write up on Mantetsu's he mentions that the Manchurian Railway logo stamp stops being put on blades after 1938? (maybe 1939) I can't remember, but after that the stamp is no longer put on.

There are no numbers on the tsuba or seppa. On second look the bottom of the tang has these lines on both sides

https://www.ebay.ca/itm/265498070990?hash=item3dd0eb0fce:g:x0oAAOSwXBBh2gd1 some Koshiere with battle damage

Wak in type 98 mounts are less common than standard length Katanas, however not horrible uncommon in my experience. I have found that shorter Wak, that measure less than 60cm to be "rare". I think this has to do with the measurement regulations for acceptable lengths. I believe it is discussed in another thread, but I am not sure what one. As for the Waks in non military mounts, but still had a combat saya on them, these were used mostly by non military personal that were contracted to work for the military, and if their contract position was similar to an officer rank, they would be permitted to carry. I have found many Waks in full type 98 mounts often are fancier than their full length counterparts, however this might just be due to fewer examples of waks than full length. Here are some pictures of Waks in my collection. The general tassel is not original to the sword, I have 2 more Wak gunto, however, they are just mounts, no blades.

Most surrender tags are made out of cloth attached to a hanger.

@Bruce Pennington

Thank you!

Sorry about your necks!

This thread reminds me of the short gunto thread that was active a while ago. There are some good examples posted there that have not been posted here yet. I am also looking for a blade for a short gunto koshirae that I purchased, more information in the wanted to buy section.

Bruce this sword is in Dawsons. It really is one of a kind.

Only one individual thinks its a repaint, another person posted their copper nco with the number 393.

Having watched quite a few of the sellers auctions / sales normally he lists them for 2x the amount the sword sells for, I guess if there is someone who really wants it has an opportunity to pay that extra. If it doesn't sell a best offer is taken or it goes to the usual auction. As for the sword. Its kind of amazing that such a low number is in pretty much untouched condition, although I'm not sure it's my cup of tea, I like atleast a little wear and tear on my gunto.

I emailed Mr. Weese and he said the books will be ready for pre order early 2022 and to keep an eye out on his website. https://japaneseswordbook.com/

Eric also mentioned on Facebook that some of his collection will be going to large auction houses, any idea what ones? I'm excited to see this collection! Hopefully some members have their wallets ready!

On a side note, I noticed 4 tiny notches at the bottom of the tang, any insight?

Not exactly a "flashy" gunto, but a nice one nonetheless. I mentioned in the "Manchurian eye Candy" thread that I was thinking of bidding on those high class mounts which celebrated 25 years of service to the SMR, however, this early Mantetsu blade in combat mounts took precedent! Hope you enjoy the pictures I took, I know @Bruce Penningtonwill.

I think Matt Brice had one like this for sale years ago, I have seen them with the usual Matsu blades in them as well. Even without the blade I am tempted to bid on this!

@Bruce Pennington

What tassel are you asking about??

In this album there are many pictures of officers with gunto, I will be adding those to the military swords of Japan thread.

I have one more I need to take pictures of!

I'll post mine when I get a chance. 😁

I don't think I've seen this one here... I am aware it posted sideways 😡

Photos of the mun