Manufactured at the Tokyo Arsenal in Koishikawa, the "Baby Nambu" was designed to compete with American and German offerings in the pocket pistol field. Though not officially adopted by the Japanese military, it was a popular private purchase sidearm with high ranking officers, making it a de-facto "General Officers Pistol" of the Imperial Army and Navy. Fixed sights, with the 4-cannonball arsenal symbol on top of the extension, matching serial numbers on the right side of the extension and underside of the bolt. Fitted with straw color small parts, finely contoured checkered grips and a mismatched number (3686) nickel finished magazine. With a locking glass-topped hardwood display case, containing the pistol, a small picture card of the Japanese Army War Flag and a collar tab for an Imperial Army Captain, (see lot on the website).

Excellent, with 90% plus of the original blue finish, showing some bright wear along the high edges, a tiny amount of pitting in the bright areas, and mild spotting on the gripstraps. The grips are excellent, with a few dings and sharp checkering. Mild handling marks are present on the case and accessories. Mechanically functions, but needs work.