This is an example of an early pre-WWII Japanese Baby Nambu pistol as manufactured by the Tokyo Koishikawa Arsenal. Although never officially adopted, they were a private purchase weapon that was intended as a status symbol for high ranking Japanese Army and Naval officers. The matching serial numbers are visible on the underside of the bolt, the back side of the cocking knob, the back of the magazine, the back side of the left grip panel (the right is correctly unnumbered), and the bolt lock and striker guide, with an unnumbered firing pin. The magazine has a nickel-plated body with an aluminum base, that is correctly numbered "3550." and matching to the pistol. The top of the chamber area bears the four intertwined cannon balls of the Tokyo Arsenal, and the right side of the receiver has the Japanese Kana markings over the serial number "3550". This pistol has a high quality rust blue finish and straw colored trigger, magazine release, sear pivot pin and bolt lock; a bright finished bolt and checkered hardwood grips. With a brown leather holster, unmarked.

Very fine, retaining 90% plus original blue finish, showing some mild dark pitting spots concentrated on the muzzle, left front of the frame and rear sight, with some light freckling on the rear strap. 50% straw colors remaining, with some minor dulling on the remainder. Grips are excellent, with light handling marks and sharp checkering. Holster is very good as altered, with light wear and one absent hook on the back side. Mechanically excellent.