Is this a Kyugunto?

[hxv]

Hi,

 

Is this a Kyugunto? Can anyone give me some background on this type of mounting? The sword is 60 miles from where I am. I am heading out tomorrow to see what's under the tsuka. Also, how does one remove the tsuka on this type of mounting. It's uncharted territory for me.

 

Regards,

Hoanh

 

[John A Stuart]

I think this is a sergeant's or patrolman's Style #3 sword. I got one for $100. John

[hxv]

Thank you John. It's very helpful!!!!

 

Regards,

Hoanh

[Grey Doffin]

Hi Hoanh,

This is most likely a machine made blade. The nakago tapers down to a bolt that passes through the kashira and the handle is held on either by a nut on the end of the bolt or by peening over of the bolt end. There's no reason to remove the handle; nothing the least bit interesting to be seen underneath. Probably not worth the 60 mile drive, either.

Never seen it but I suppose it's possible this is a real blade in these mounts. Even if, the nakago has been ground down to a bolt and there won't be any value.

But someone else might know different.

Grey

[hxv]

Thank you Grey. I concur it's not worth the drive. I'm glad I asked you guys before heading out.

 

Regards,

Hoanh

[Geraint]

And just when you've made a decision.........

 

Hi Hoanh. Just for what it's worth the sword looks like a pattern identified in Fuller and Gregory as a 1895 Naval prison and shore patrol sword. If so it will have a fouled anchor engraved on the back strap and on the lower end of the scabbard. They describe it as very scarce. If this is the pattern then the blade is secured to the hilt by a male/female screw through the nakago and the tang may be undamaged. I came across one with a katana blade by Yoshitake so it might be worth a closer look

[hxv]

Hi Geraint,

 

I don't know if this sword is still available, but I can try to contact the seller.

 

Regards,

Hoanh