Japanese Type 98 Shin Gunto Katana (Papua New Guinea Relic)
This Japanese Type 98 Shin Gunto (New Army Sword) was standard issue for officers during WWII. Captured in Papua New Guinea during the Pacific War and brought to Western Australia, the piece represents a tangible artifact from the intense fighting in the Pacific Theater, specifically the battles fought between Australia and Japan.
Hilt (Tsuka): Craftsmanship and Symbolism
Description:
- Hilt Wrap (Tsuka Ito): Traditional wrapping, likely made of silk or similar material, exhibiting the characteristic crisscross pattern for a secure grip. Color appears to be a faded brown or khaki, showing wear and age.
- Samegawa (Ray Skin) Partial visibility under the wrapping suggests the presence of samegawa, providing a textured, non-slip surface beneath the ito.
- Kashira (Pommel): Metal pommel, likely made of brass, with visible decoration, possibly floral or chrysanthemum motifs, though detail is obscured in the image.
- Fuchi (Collar): Metal collar between the hilt and the handguard, likely matching the kashira in material and finish.
- Tsuba (Handguard): Circular or rounded square handguard, likely of iron or another metal, with a simple design, possibly pierced or with raised elements. Shows significant wear and patination.
- Menuki: Small decorative ornaments (though not clearly visible in this image), traditionally placed under the hilt wrapping, often depicting symbolic objects or figures.
Blade (Nagasa): Forged for Combat
- Type: Traditional Japanese blade with a distinct curvature (sori).
- Material: Likely high-carbon steel, potentially featuring a temper line (hamon) indicating differential hardening. Further examination would be needed to confirm the presence and style of a hamon.
- Condition: Shows signs of polishing and maintenance, with some minor scratches and potential edge nicks visible. The overall condition suggests field use and age.
Scabbard (Saya)
- Material: Wood, covered with a material that appears to be a leather substitute, now showing significant wear, discoloration, and damage.
- Fittings: Metal koiguchi (scabbard throat) and kojiri (scabbard tip), likely matching the hilt fittings in material and finish, though detail is obscured by wear and patina.
- Condition: Significant wear and age evident, with the covering material heavily worn and damaged, particularly near the koiguchi. Suggests long-term storage and exposure.
Significant patina and wear are visible across all components, indicating the sword’s age and history.
aA genuine WWII-era Japanese Type 98 Shin Gunto.