Original Japanese WWII Very Senior Forester’s Dirk with Engraved Paulownia Flower Crest and Scabbard

Original Item: Only One Item Available. This is a very nice example of an Imperial Japanese Very Senior Forester’s Dirk, complete with its brass-mounted leather scabbard. From what we’ve found, there were several levels of Forester’s dirk, with this being the highest level, and there only having been one other example found in the book we referenced.

The blade has a great simulated temper line and measures 10¾”, with an overall length of 14⅞. The hilt has a lovely wire-wrapped rayskin grip, with the 3-5-3 (五三桐) (Five-Three Paulownia Flower Crest) engraved on the back strap as well as on the pommel. There is a crosspin in the grip.

The original brass-mounted leather scabbard is in great order, with heavy service wear to the brass fittings, and cracking with crazing in the leather. It measures 11⅞”. 

This is a really tremendous Very Senior Forester’s dirk, which still requires a great deal of research. Comes ready to display!

Measurements:
Blade Length: 10¾ inches
Total Length: 14⅞ inches
Crossguard: 2½ inches
Sheath Length: 11⅞ inches