Rare IIDA GUNTO Japanese Sword -WW2 Army Samurai -Saya LOCK -Imai SADASHIGE

[matthewbrice]

Exceedingly rare Japanese WW2 Iida mount Army Officer's gendai sword available.  This sword is among the most rare of all Japanese military swords.  These mounts are referred to as the Iida seal--or the Iida lock, named after its inventor Iida Kunitaro.  This exceptional Japanese Army sword would make an important addition to any collection.

 

This sword was made the 2 Million Yen smith, Imai Sadashige.  Imai Sadashige earned the title of Sword Forging Teacher/Special Honor Noted Seat at the 1941 Sword Exhibition.  Sadashige is featured on page 150 & 151 in John Slough's book, An Oshigata Book of Modern Japanese Swordsmiths 1868-1945.  

The blade measures a long 26 7/8" (68.3 cm) from blade tip to the notch in the blade spine.  

The Iida lock is a weather-proofing mount designed to keep water and dirt out of the saya.  This exceptionally rare sword would make an important addition to any collection.  Information on the Iida (IIDA) lock can be found on pages 168 & 169 of Jim Dawson's book, Swords of Imperial Japan 1868-1945 Cyclopedia Edition.  Additional information can be found in Fuller and Gregory's book Japanese Military and Civil Swords and Dirks.  

 

The hamon is exceptional--the temper line billows almost all the way up to the shinogi line.  Once polished this sword will be a screamer.  Sadashige's work is exceptional.  Look at the photos of the hamon to see clues of what will be revealed in the blade once polished.  

 

The saya is a special lightweight variation--made of lacquer-covered wood.  

 

 

CONDITION:

 

 

The mounts on this antique Japanese World War II Army Officer's sword are in excellent condition.  

The blade saw only superficial oxidation--this sword will polish beautifully.  I can arrange or provide a referral for polish if the buyer wishes.  

The Iida lock functions perfectly.  

 

 

Here is the link to the full listing with photos:

 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/363974444219

 

 

Available for $400 less than list price if purchased direct via info@stcroixblades.com.

 

 

 

 

--Matthew Brice

 

www.StCroixBlades.com