Original Item: Only One Available. This is something that we have only had one of before! We have had several of the Second and Third type swords, but this is only the second time we have had the First type. During Japanese history, edged weapons had always been a symbol of authority and power, so when power was returned to the Emperor during the Meiji restoration of 1868, many new designs of swords were needed for the various new organizations that came into being as Japan "modernized". The police in particular had a real need to be armed, and various swords were designed for the various ranks in the organization. As had been seen previously in history, members of higher rank would have more ornate and elaborate swords, less suitable for actual use, and more for display.

This is a very good example of a WWII Era Japanese Patrolman & Sergeant's sword from the Imperial Police department. There were several different versions of these known, and this is known as the First Type, which does not have a handguard or side tabs with circle emblems on them, but does have the "Five-ray" police insignia on the rear of the hilt near the pommel. This specific type is described and pictured in the book Swords of Imperial Japan 1868-1945: Cyclopedia Edition by Jim Dawson, pages 303-305. Pictures of these pages are shown as a reference only, and are not included. As would expect for the sword of a "rank and file" member of the police, it is designed for actual use, with minimal ornamentation, with much more thought given to functionality.

This is a very fine example in rough but preserved condition. The brass guard has a rich patina, showing that has not been heavily polished over the years. The police insignia on the rear of the hilt is still well retained and easily visible, though it is a bit worn, as it was stamped directly into the brass. The grip on 1st type swords varied, with some being made from leather, while others such as this example made from the same Sa-Me rayskin shagreen used on katanas, which is very well retained, with twisted brass wire binding. Looking at period pictures, the "bent back" cross guard is correct, and seems to vary from sword to sword. There was originally a scabbard lock present on the grip ferrule, but it is now broken away from the scabbard, so the scabbard only sits on the sword for display, and the sword is not secure inside of it.

The blade is in fair condition, showing a heavily peppered and oxidized steel finish with some very small spots where it is still bright. The edge is still relatively sharp, with some scuffing in areas, and heavier oxidation towards the tip. We have made no attempts to clean or sharpening it to avoid disturbing the patina. The leather blade buffer is sti

The steel scabbard is in rough condition, with the internal pieces now gone and the scabbard now just sitting on the sword for display. These are usually nickel or chrome plated, however there is no evidence of either. The scabbard is moderately dented with very heavy oxidation across its exterior. The hanger ring is still present in its bolster, but there are no internal inserts. There are some very faint stamped markings on the throat.

The combination of the scarce First Type configuration, five-ray Imperial Police insignia, well-retained rayskin grip, twisted brass wire, distinctive bent-back guard, surviving leather blade buffer, and original steel scabbard makes this an especially interesting example of Japanese police edged weaponry. The broken scabbard lock, heavy blade oxidation, missing internal scabbard fittings, extensive scabbard corrosion, and denting are the principal condition issues, while the rare early configuration remains readily identifiable and historically significant.

Dimensions:
Overall length: 27 3/4”
Blade length: 21 1/2”
Cross guard: 3 5/8”
Scabbard length: 23 3/4”