1883 Pattern Japanese Naval Officer's Dirk & Scabbard. Early Model 1883 Pattern Japanese Naval Officer's Dirk & Scabbard. Other Blades

Original Early Model 1883 Pattern Japanese Naval Officer's Dirk & Scabbard. Sn 15576 - 15576

This is an excellent, original early model 1883 Pattern Japanese Naval Officer's Dirk & Scabbard. These dirks were worn by all commissioned Officers. Late examples made towards the end of WW2 had simulated sharkskin grips made from plastic or composite material and celluloid cross guards. Early examples had sharkskin grips and ornate gilt finished fittings (see pages 70-73 of Military Swords Of Japan By Fuller & Gregory). This Dirk has the correct shark skin grip with gilt wire binding which is tight. It has an ornate pommel and wave cross guard. The grip is mounted with the Emperor's family Chrysanthemum insignia, or 'Mon'. The fittings retain traces of original gilt finish. It has an 8 ¾” single edged polished steel blade with fullers. It measures 13 ¼” overall and the hilt is slotted for retaining lug which is mounted on its scabbard. The wood scabbard has ornately decorated mounts with traces of original gilt finish and is leather bound which is a rich red/brown colour. The upper mount of the scabbard has the correct press button retaining lug & 2 hanging rings. Price for this sought after Japanese Naval piece includes UK delivery. Sn 15576
£675.00 ...Read full description