Nickelodeon

Hi Bruce, Regarding the numbered parts, (333 in my instance), could these be production numbers from those made in Semarang? The reason I say this is that numbering the parts for each sword for is logical for individual fit, but it would also fit in with a ‘mass production division of labour or a production line’. It would then follow that the sword numbers would be consecutive. Numbered swords could then be issued from the Arsenal / Stores to a named officer, allowing a stock check to be taken etc. as well as personal issue acknowledging the traditional meaning of possessing the katana. Presumably the finished swords would be stored with other weapons and supplies that would be issued? I expect that any records would be none or few, however, general operations and procedures in other theatres of operation would be repeated in Java.. I mention this as there appears to be no repeat numbers, albeit looking at a small sample. Although production would be local with a shortage of materials, I would also expect Japanese oversight to be efficient, (a culture is steeped in transition & ceremony), rather than a random ad hoc allocation. 3 31 49 (Unconfirmed see photos) 131 333 Any thoughts appreciated. Nick

Thanks Jean, Forged in Fire, Nick

Hi Trystan, that sounds like a desperate shortage of steel in wartime……I take car springs = leaf springs (UK). If only they could talk. Thanks for info, it’s an eye opener. Kind regards, Nick

Hi Jean, the TSUKA-ITO is a webbing material, interesting it’s not typical Japanese. I’ve not had it long and cannot add any more info, thanks Nick

Morning Jean, Thanks for your information. I’ve just posted some photos, though I’m not an expert on sword quality. Cheers Nick

Bruce, Hope these photos are suitable for your records, Nick

Thanks Brian, makes sense, Nick

Hi Moriyama-san, Thank you for your reply and the additional detail. It’s interesting that you mention that the characters look a little strange. I will be posting some close up photos as I mention in my reply to Bruce, and would appreciate any comments. Kind regards, Nick

Hi Bruce, I’ll post some photos for your records - but will wait until daylight in the morning. I bought this sword from a local auction about 4 weeks ago. It was the cheaper of two costing £275. The other had a leather outer covering and cost £750. I will post the pictures of the other as this shows the tang and detail in their listing. I have other items from WW2 including, if I remember right, a DFC with details of the recipient. I wanted to return this back to the states, but could not find any living family - posted it on a war graves site as well. I bought the Katana out of curiosity as it moved away from the traditional ceremonial prized ones and wanted to delve into the history. I have spent hours searching the internet and translated a portion of the inscription as Suma and Jawa. I noticed a lot of sites repeating each other resulting in ‘vaguerisms’ galore. I am not sure if I can establish what I’m looking for, specifically: What was the estimated year was 333 made What is the highest number stamp recorded What was the rate of production Did a Javan or Japanese craftsman make it Was it made from a billet and oil drenched Was it manually hammered or machine hammered What was the exact location(s) of the place they were made in Semarang Any pointers would be appreciated. Kind regards, Nick

HI Ray, thank you for that excellent information + source = clarity - a whole new picture is revealed! Kind regards, Nick

Hi, New to the site. Just bought this WW2 relic at auction and would ask for assistance in the translation on the tang. The marks seem very simple, but I after research on the net I cannot find a comparative. This blade and the rest of its components are marked/ stamped 333, there are two holes in the tang, ray skin is not used - it looks like thin white leather and the Tsuka-Ito appears to be a webbing type material. I expect it to be a Shin-Gunto massed produced. I should be grateful for any further identification information. I have an historical interest in this period. Many thanks N