Collectors of WWII memorabilia, Japanese artifacts, or war antiques, an authentic Japanese samurai swords is a valuable and heavily-sought addition to a collection. They embody ancient history in craftsmanship, culture, and skill that goes back hundreds of years. Owning one means owning a piece of that heritage and history.
Yet every vintage samurai katana is unique, with its own culture and history attached to it. Knowing the background of specific military katanas doesn’t just add to the symbolism, but also to its value.
Antique Armory has a collection of antique katana for sale, each one with a unique story to tell. Keep reading to learn about each of our expertly crafted katana antiques. First though, let’s dive into the history of the Japanese katana.
Understanding Authentic Japanese Samurai Swords
The historical significance of a katana stretches back over 1000 years, but the distinct curved blade we recognize today traces back to the 12th through 16th centuries. At that time, Japanese swordsmiths developed a new forging process that removed impurities and created a razor-sharp blade while keeping the spine flexible.
This process is what produces the wavy, crystallized-looking line along the blade, also known as the hamon. This is one of the most important factors that historians and collectors use today to judge a swordsmith’s skill as well as their style.
The history of katanas is broken down into different periods. This includes:
- Old-swords (or Koto), which were forged before 1596.
- New Swords (or Shinto) that were created from 1596 to about 1780.
- New New Swords (or Shinshinto) which date from roughly 1781 to 1876.
- Modern swords (or Gendaito), which are those katanas built after 1876.
- Showato, the WWII katanas with modern steel and, sometimes, the use of machines.
When learning about imperial Japanese swords, these different historical periods are important. However, as we mentioned earlier, every single blade is unique, with a different hilt (tsuka), guard (tsuba), scabbard (saya), and handle ornaments (menuki). These pieces can be changed without changing the blade, which means two nearly identical blades can appear incredibly different.
So, what are some authentic Japanese swords you can buy from Antique Armory? Let’s look.
WWII Era Old Style Koshirae Mounted Katana
This katana is from the WWII era and forged in the old style, which is noticeable along the elegantly-forged blade. With a traditional curvature and construction, this blade truly brings the samurai history into World War 2.
During WWII, Japan officers would often carry these traditional blades into service, instead of using the Showato type from their era. Not only did these swords connect Japanese military men to their ancestors and lineage, but they were forged using techniques from hundreds of years before the war.
Unlike those standard issue katanas made with modern steel and machines, this sword has a unique hamon, or temper line that you can see along the entire length of the blade. For collectors, the grain structure that demonstrates its traditional construction is highly treasured.
However, the other unique fittings on this WW2 Japanese sword are just as impressive as the traditionally forged blade. The hilt is wrapped in the traditional manner and the scabbard (though starting to peel) shows an elegance prized among high ranking officials.
You can learn more about this Japanese officer sword WWII era, and even purchase it for your collection right here on Antique Armory.
Service-Worn Type 98 Shin-Gunto Katana
We are proud to offer this Type 98 Shin-Gunto katana for sale, authentic and in great condition. So, what does it symbolize, what is its history, and how was it made?
Well, a Type 98 katana is a military officer’s sword introduced in 1938, right in the middle of WWII. With a single suspension ring on the scabbard, a ray-skin wrapped handle, and often cherry blossom decorations, this type of sword was an update to the earlier Type 94 katana.
The significance of Type 98 was the collision between traditional samurai katanas and the demands of the war. Our unique Type 98 sword features the classic silhouette that is most cherished by collectors.
Unlike earlier sabers, the Shin-Gunto utilizes the traditional Japanese aesthetic. Our sword is a service-worn option with the traditional markings of Type 98, including the single-hanger scabbard and cherry-blossom ornamentation.
You can check out our antique katana with original combat scabbard here.
Authentic WW2 Type 95 NCO Katana
These Type 95 swords were issued to non-commissioned officers in the Imperial Japanese army during World war 2. This style was issued in 1935 and even though it’s a more modern sword style, it is made to look like a traditional samurai katana.
Typically, this style has machine-made blades, which are stamped from industrial steel. They feature a deeper groove and completely cash copper or aluminum handles (or wooden for later in the war).
What makes our Authentic WW2 Type 95 NCO sword remarkable is its well preserved hilt wrapped in the traditional diamond pattern. It comes with the original metal scabbard, though weathered from its original tone.
It’s rare to find an original NCO sword Japanese army issued from WW2 that’s in this condition. It’s the perfect addition to anyone’s collection.
You can find our Type 95 NCO katana with metal scabbard for sale here.
WW2 Imperial Japanese Signed Wakizashi
This Imperial Japanese signed Wakizashi with kanji tang WW2 demonstrates unbelievable artistry. The single-edged blade is complemented by a Kanji signature, or autograph or personal seal using traditional Japanese Kanji characters. This adds to its historical value.
However, the hand guard (tsuba) made from brass with an intricate bull design is just as impressive. Without a Seppa or Fuchi, components used to assemble the handle and guard, this sword offers a minimalist appeal that collectors often look for.
Unlike some of our other Kantanas, the handle of this blade is wood, wrapped in leather. The scabbard is also leather-wrapped wood. These pieces offer a storied background with some wear that indicates its authenticity and adds to its story. Learn more about the Japanese Gunto HERE
Acquire this Katana from Antique Armory before it’s gone.
Rare Japanese Hand Carved Meiji Period Samurai Sword
Maybe our most impressive katana we have for sale is this rare hand carved sword from the Meiji period from 1868 to 1912. Made in the late 19th century this sword demonstrates a level of skill and craftsmanship that’s unparalleled.
It has a finely honed blade that was forged from traditional Tamahagane steel with a slightly curved iconic katana design. However, it’s the handle and scabbard that give this piece its ultimate value and splendor. These components are hand-carved and adorned with intricate motifs with people, plants, flowers, and more.
Additionally, this sword comes with a certificate of authenticity and is perfectly preserved, holding the ideals of the samurai in its history, design, and value.
If you want to add this piece to your collection, you better act fast because these carved Meiji period swords are always in demand.
Conclusion
Katanas are grand additions to any collection, and embody the history and significance of the samurai, as well as WWII. Whether you want a carved samurai sword, a Type 95 NCO katana, or a Type 98 katana, we have them available right now.
Antique Armory is proud to offer you these swords and more for fair prices, giving you the opportunity to add a WWII katana to your collection. You can check out all our katanas by clicking here.