WWII Katana?
The blade is 34 in from tip to end of tang. It is black with black handle and appears to have dragons under the wrap. My grandfather brought it back from WWII I have pictures
Unknown
Inherited
No
Dear Eli,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
The presented object appears to be a Japanese Gunto sword which was in use by the Imperial Japanese Army until 1945. This appears to be a Shin Gunto type which was produced between 1935 and 1945 and comes with a leather-covered scabbard which was common for cavalry troops. Such weapons came with returning GIs after WWII in high numbers to American collections.
This piece is in good condition and there is no serious damage visible in the images provided.
A fair market estimation would be between 400 to 800 USD.
This estimate is based on actual recent past recorded auction sales of comparable items. Retail "asking prices" can be higher and may vary.
With kind regards,
Georg
