Meiji 19 Artillery Sword

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	Weapon: Meiji 19 Artillery Sword Type: Artillery Briquet Country of Origin: Japan Year Adopted: 1886 Overall Length (mm): 670.0 Weight (kg): 0.00

The Meiji 19 Artillery Sword, introduced in 1886, was a standard-issue weapon for Japanese artillery crews during the late Meiji period. Its design reflected a blend of traditional Japanese swordsmithing techniques and Western military influence, characterized by a straight, double-edged blade suited for both ceremonial and practical purposes. The sword featured a simple steel guard and a wood grip, optimized for durability and ease of handling in field conditions. The scabbard was typically constructed from wood and wrapped in leather for added resilience.

Production of the Meiji 19 Artillery Sword was primarily overseen by arsenals such as the Tokyo and Osaka arsenals, which were at the forefront of modernizing Japan's military equipment during the late 19th century. While exact production numbers are difficult to ascertain, the sword was issued extensively to artillery officers and was a common sight among the Imperial Japanese Army's ranks in the decades leading up to World War I. Each sword was stamped with arsenal markings, adding to its authenticity and traceability.

The Meiji 19 Artillery Sword holds historical significance as a symbol of Japan's transition from samurai-era weaponry to modern military arms. Although it saw limited combat use due to the changing nature of warfare, it remained a ceremonial and status symbol for artillery officers. Today, the Meiji 19 Artillery Sword is a prized collector's item, valued for its craftsmanship and historical importance in representing Japan's modernization and its adoption of Western military practices.