JEWELLERY, DECORATIVE & FINE ARTS AUCTION Tuesday, 18 May 2021 - 10:00 AM start
A WWII Japanese shin gunto katana sword
Estimate: $1,500 - $2,000
Lot Details
brown steel scabbard with single hanger. The blade in as found good condition with minimal rust. The handle (tsuka) fixed to the tang and unable to be removed, with single peg. Blade length approx. 670mm. Provenance: the estate collection of Wing Commander J. J. De Willimoff (1917-2003) RNZAF, NZ413038, MBE, DFC; with 15 Squadron in the Solomons 1943/44; commanded (Fighter) 23 Squadron at Emirau and Los Negros 1944/45; led 14 Squadron RNZAF Occupation Forces Japan 1945/47 (where he was gifted this sword); aide-de-camp to the Governor General 1950/51; retired 1951; Air Efficiency Award 1961; Reserve Force until 1972.
