Rare Special-Order Japanese Officer’s Guntō (Type 98) made by Sekido Ishido Teruhide

Rare Special-Order Japanese Officer’s Guntō (Type 98) by Sekido (Ishido) Teruhide

Japan, World War II era

This sword is a rare, special-order Type 98 Guntō, made in Japan during the Second World War for a high-ranking officer. Unlike the standard military issue, this example was custom-made to the officer’s specifications, featuring distinctive and luxurious fittings seldom encountered in wartime mounts.

The koshirae (mountings) are particularly noteworthy. The hilt (tsuka) is wrapped in black ito instead of the usual brown or green, while the menuki are also finished in black rather than the more common gold. The tsuba (guard) is crafted in a combination of gold and silver, a striking departure from the standard all-gold finish. Both the tsuba and seppa are marked with the matching assembly number “17,” confirming their original pairing. The locking pin mechanism functions perfectly, and the overall condition of the fittings is excellent for its age.

Accompanying the sword is a copy of the original Japanese registration card, attesting to its authenticity and providing an important link to its history and provenance.

The tang (nakago) is signed:
“Sekido Ishido Teruhide Saku”
(“Made by Sekido [Ishido] Teruhide”).

The blade is straight, well-balanced, and very sharp, showing no forging flaws or edge damage.

• Blade length (nagasa): 66.8 cm (26.2 in)

• Curvature (sori): 1.7 cm