Product Description
JAPANESE 1886 Pattern ARMY/POLICE Parade Pattern Field Grade OFFICER Sword
With BRASS HILT and NICKEL SCABBARD
Here we present a World War II Era Japanese 1886 Pattern Army/Police Parade Pattern Field Grade Officer’s Sword, manufactured circa the 1930s-40s. Japan is internationally renowned for its traditional swords, but comparatively little has been written about the swords of the Imperial period, which include both traditional, hand-made examples and modern, machine-made types. After Japan was “opened” to the West in the 19th century, a period of rapid modernization saw the adoption of European-style military arms, uniforms, and accoutrements. This was also reflected in changes to military swords, which closely echoed Western designs, albeit with a Japanese twist, until a period of resurgent nationalism in the 1930s that continued through the Second World War.
This example is the Pattern 1886 Army/Police Officer’s Parade Saber with a fully decorated back strap with the kadosakura, or five petal cherry blossom, and leaves. This means it was authorized to be carried by a field grade officer, which was a Major or a Colonel. This is a rarely encountered sword, especially in this condition. Although they were identified as the Pattern 1886, these were continually manufactured well into the World War II era. The hilt consists of a blackened hardwood grip wrapped with the standard type of pierced brass “D-Guard” consisting of two panels, with two kadosakura in one panel.
After the war, Japan incorporated a law that caused sword ownership to be illegal. Most of the Japanese soldiers and citizens surrendered their swords and complied. Many of these swords ended up being destroyed by American soldiers, as they didn’t want the general population to re-arm. Although, somehow, a few of these made their way back to the United States.
The overall condition is very good. Bright blade. This example sports a solid hilt, with brass wire wrapping a bare wooden grip. The pommel nut is a replacement. Good nickel finished scabbard.
Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction.
Overall length is 34 inches.
Blade length is 29 inches.
Overall condition as seen in photos.
Very Fast. Very Safe. FREE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE. Delivered directly to your door by express mail!
Guaranteed AUTHENTIC & Includes CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY.
www.ancestryguns.com
$900
#231039