Japanese Wakizashi with Koshirae and Signed Kozuka Knife – WW2 GI Bring Back 

This Japanese wakizashi is mounted in traditional koshirae and represents a complete and well-preserved example of a companion short sword intended for wear alongside a katana. The blade shows a gentle, shallow sori with a well-proportioned mihaba and healthy kasane, retaining a functional and balanced silhouette. The steel exhibits characteristics consistent with traditionally forged work.

The blade displays a clearly visible hamon running evenly along the ha. The temper line is predominantly suguha in character, with subtle, natural undulation and a soft, continuous nioi-guchi. Under proper lighting, minor internal activity can be observed within the hamon, consistent with traditional differential hardening. The appearance is calm and restrained, suggesting practical workmanship rather than highly decorative intent.

The jihada is visible in the ji and appears fine and well consolidated. It shows a tight, uniform grain consistent with itame-hada, with no obvious coarse openings (ware) visible in the provided views. The surface reflects light evenly, indicating sound forging and good steel cohesion for the type and period.

The nakago exhibits a stable, dark patina consistent with age and does not show signs of recent alteration. The overall condition of the blade suggests careful preservation.

The koshirae is cohesive and attractive. The tsuka is wrapped in dark ito over samegawa, with menuki visible beneath the wrap. The iron tsuba is of understated form, showing honest wear and a utilitarian aesthetic. The fuchi and kashira are decorated en suite with subtle engraved motifs.

The saya is fitted with a kozuka knife housed in the side pocket. The kozuka handle is decorated with raised relief work depicting botanical and animal motifs executed in mixed metals. The kozuka appears to be signed, with characters visible on the reverse. While the signature has not been formally authenticated, its placement and execution are consistent with signed kozuka by trained fittings artisans. The kozuka blade is present, completing the ensemble.

Overall condition is good for age, showing honest wear throughout, sword is in old polish (surface wear throughout) and no evidence of modern alteration. A solid and complete wakizashi set.