Tom Clancy

Yes Gunto Mounts.

A one off Special Order. By Masamichi Feb 1942. This Sword will be available shortly.

Hi Bryce, This is the mei This blade is forged by Masa Michi who lived in the province of Bingo and it is for Mr Munehira Hiroshi respectfully ------------------------ A lucky day of February of the 17th year of showa a gift from your parents forever be with you Kind regards, Tom.

John, This was made some weeks later but could have been ordered by this young officers parents as a result of the attack. A gift on his departure.

Good quality sword from WW2. Tom.

There appears to be a big interest in copper NCO's lately. I own two and have decided to let one go, so this is a heads up for members who collect military swords. I will be listing it on ebay in the coming week or give it a shot here on NMB. The sword is probably the finest sub 2000 copper serial number in existence, most of the scabbard paint in intact with no dents plus a mint sword and of course matching numbers. Regards, Tom.

The Mei reads Emura Saku and yes it is rare to find Yakidashi on Gendaito. Tom.

Hi Hamfish, Here is a polished Emura. Tom.

If I recall the other smith was Mitsukoshi Hiromasa. He and Miyaguchi were employed by Baron Okura Kishichiro at the Okura Tanren jo. Regards Tom.

to to ju nin ikkansai kunimori kin saku. regards Tom.

Tobias I think Ted is correct that the most comprehensive works on minatogawa gendaito is by Herman A Wallinga. Here are a few pages of the text. Hope this is of some help. Regards Tom.

Another one. Tom.

Just wondered has any member seen this version of Ron Gregory's book. The text appears to be the same as the general issued copy but there are different photos in this. I was talking to Roy Lindus who knew Ron Gregory and he suggested that this could be an authors draft prior to publication. Does anyone have any comments. Regards Tom.

Hi George I think you are right these unusual inscriptions are less common than is generally thought, especially gendatio. Most were signed by the smith and for the person for whom it was made or patriotic slogans, cutting tests or to commemorate a special occasion. The one I posted to the best of my knowledge is unique. As regards members not coming forward with their unusual inscriptions, they don't have them or they must be the shy retiring type. Ed very nice and unusual mei and a great site.

Hi George An approximate translation is as follows: For Mr. Munehira Hiroshi Masamichi in Bingo Province forged this. A lucky day in February 1942. From Parents Always be with you. Regards Tom.