Measuring 36 1/4 inches overall, with a 34 3/4 inch blade length and 26 inch edge, this is a fine wartime production Japanese sword with "marine" pattern fittings. Maker: Mano Masayasu. While much of the sword production leading up to and during World War II was of "non-traditional" style in the name of efficiency, a number of traditional swords were still being made as time and resources permitted. The blade shows a fine wavy hamon and attractive grain, with a lightly aged tang showing one mekugi-ana and bearing a signature on the left side; consignor translation puts this as the mark of the smith Mano Masayasu, circa 1941. Notable is the absence of any "showa" stamping on the tang, which would denote any deviation from the "proper" materials or techniques. The fittings are all in the "marine" pattern, with matching "80" parts numbers on multiple components, a brown cord wrap, and a black saya with nickel finished hardware. A fine cloth pouch is also included.

Very good. The bright blade shows one nick on the left side, six inches up and right on the line of the hamon, otherwise the blade only shows minor wear and spotting. Mild staining is visible on the cord, and some light handling marks on the furniture overall. The saya is a combination of a modern body and vintage fittings.