01/09/2026
An exceptional Japanese sword with a remarkable history
We are pleased to present this impressive NBTHK certified Shintō katana by Inaba no Kami Fujiwara Kanetoki 因幡守藤原金辰, a highly regarded Mino swordsmith of the Edo period.
Surviving works by Kanetoki are scarce, and full length katana are considerably less frequently encountered than his shorter blades. With a nagasa of 68.1 cm, this signed katana is a particularly desirable example of his work.
But this sword has another fascinating chapter to its history.
Centuries after it was forged, the blade was mounted for service with the Imperial Japanese Navy in an outstanding Kai guntō koshirae.
The mounting is especially impressive. The saya is completely covered in samegawa, traditionally referred to by collectors as sharkskin, a distinctive and seldom encountered variation of the Japanese naval sword. Together with the beautifully preserved gilt naval fittings and surviving naval officer's tassel, it creates a magnificent and highly collectible ensemble.
The overall condition is superb.
This is far more than simply a military sword. At its heart is an authentic seventeenth century Japanese Nihontō by an accomplished Shintō smith, preserved centuries later in an exceptional Imperial Japanese Navy mounting.
One sword connecting almost three centuries of Japanese history.
Inaba no Kami Fujiwara Kanetoki 金辰
Mino Province
Edo period, Shintō
Nagasa 68.1 cm
NBTHK certified
Imperial Japanese Navy Kai guntō koshirae
Sharkskin covered saya
Naval officer's tassel
An outstanding collector's piece for enthusiasts of both Nihontō and Imperial Japanese military history.
Available now at BushidoShop.nl
European specialist in authentic Japanese swords