One of the great "mystery" weapons of World War II, assembled data suggests that the "Type 19" was developed late in the war by Japanese forces deployed for the occupation of China. While the occupiers had been able to make use of native Chinese industry for the majority of the war, this use became more critical as the naval situation continued to break down; American submarines had been a burden on Japanese logistics for virtually the whole war, and by 1944 nowhere, not even the Sea of Japan or Japanese home waters, could be considered safe from an American torpedo. Starting with the Type 14 pistol as a base, the Type 19 design sought to simplify the design, trading off a higher weight for a reduction in parts and a much lower need for fine detailed machining. It is believed that after the final collapse of Imperial Japan, the Chinese continued to manufacture the Type 19 for their own use. Blade front and notch rear sights, with the "ni" (2) symbol on the left side of the frame, along with the "North China" marking and serial number. An assembly number of "104" is present on the bolt, cocking knob, trigger and front strap, with a simplified integral trigger guard, takedown lever on the front right side, and the sear-blocking thumb safety on the back left. The grips are ribbed, and a Type 14 magazine is included; the magazine has been altered to be compatible with the catches on both the 14 and 19. Includes a brown leather clamshell holster.

Good. The surface has a mixed, artificial brown and gray patina, showing some mild spotting and handling marks overall. The refinished grips are also good, a bit loose, with some mild wear. The holster is very good, with some scuffing, dark spots, and cracking in the front sight region. Mechanically fine. These North China Type 19 Pistols are rare in any condition!