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EMPIRE OF JAPAN
#LL2 Japanese National Flag with Period Kanji Writing
Original WWII Japanese national flag signed by patriots to the soldier who carried it in period Kanji writing for good luck. Included with the flag is a full translation completed by Dan King. The full translation will be provided to the buyer. Some of the translation includes “Destroy the enemy, kill them all” “Decision” “"Fushaku Shinmyo" (To devote ones body and life to a greater purpose) “Never stop firing” and several others including a poem making ten signed translations total. One of the messages was signed by Navy Captain Saito of an accounting & payroll Section, suggesting a possible Imperial Japanese Navy connection. The flag is good condition showing genuine age, and as usual these silk flags should be handled with care. The flag measures approximately 32 x 28“ (Inches). Great all around example. $265
#LL3 Small Japanese National Flag
Original WWII Japanese national flag. The flag is good condition showing genuine age. These silk flags should be handled with care. The flag measures approximately 17 x 12 “ (Inches). Great all around example. $100
#LL4 Small Japanese National Flag
Original WWII Japanese national flag. The flag is good condition showing genuine age with heavy patina and some possible rust or blood stains. These silk flags should be handled with care. The flag measures approximately 17 x 12 “ (Inches). Great all around example. $100
#GJ21 Three Variants of IJAAS Pilot’s Wings
Original WWII Imperial Japanese Army Air Service Pilot’s wings. Three different variants all in nice condition. $130
#J2074 Ginyoku Japanese Best Sake Bottle Label
Original WWII Ginkyoky Japanese Best Sake bottle label. This was a popular pre-war 1930's brand featuring the Zero fighter plane. The label is unapplied and the seller reports finding it in Japan. $20
#RG205 Japanese / U.S. Navy Seabee "Tojo" Flag with Kanji
Original WWII Japanese National "Tojo" flag. These classic "Tojo" flags were period made by U.S. Navy Seabees to sell to unsuspecting rear-echelon service members looking for souvenirs from the front lines. The "Tojo signature" can be found at the 5 o'clock position on this flag. This is a great piece of history which should be included in any serious flag collectors collection, although not a true Japanese hinomaru yosegaki. This example is in good shape, showing genuine patina and age. The flag measures approximately 17" by 13” (Inches). Great example that expectedly surfaced in the United States. $325
#J2069 Japanese National Flag with Kanji
Original WWII Japanese National Flag made of fine silk with authentic period Kanji writing and period stamps often applied when visiting shrines prior to departing for war. Japanese soldiers carried these flags with them into battle for good luck, and they were a popular souvenir taken by American and other Allied soldiers. This example is in good shape, showing genuine patina and age. The flag measures approximately 38" by 29” (Inches). Great example. $350
#J2044 Japanese National Flag with Kanji
Original WWII Japanese National Flag made of fine silk with authentic period Kanji writing and battle damage. Consignor reports the flag was originally purchased from the United States, presumably from a U.S. veterans foot locker. Japanese soldiers carried these flags with them in battle for good luck, and we are not sure how the damage occurred, but the flag is tattered and has lots of character. The flag has an appealing “been there” look to it and would display well carefully framed. Flag measures approximately 34” by 30” (Inches). Great example. $350
#J2056 Japanese Senninbari Thousand Stitch Belt
Original WWII Japanese Senninbari thousand stitch belt. Great example, the stitches on the front of the belt translates to "Strength of a thousand men". There is a paper amulet / ofuda sewn between the layers that can be seen. $250
#J2060 Japanese Senninbari Thousand Stitch Belt
Original WWII Japanese Senninbari thousand stitch belt. Kanji translates to "Matsuo Shouichi" which would be the owners name. The belt has unique closure snaps, featuring a centre pocket with closure snaps as well. Knots are on the inner. Great example. $250
#J2050 Imperial Japanese Army Patriotic Figure / Toy Soldier
Original WWII Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) patriotic figure / toy soldier. Uncommon item to find from the homefront. There is a clay ball inside that still rattles when shaken. $125
#J2065 Imperial Japanese Personal Effects Cloth Bag
Original WWII Imperial Japanese personal effects bag cloth bag. Carried by the soldier to hold things like photos, documents, and other valuables. Nice example. $60
#J2066 Imperial Japanese Personal Effects Cloth Bag, hand made
Original WWII Imperial Japanese personal effects bag cloth bag. Uncommon hand-made example. Carried by the soldier to hold things like photos, documents, and other valuables. Nice example. $60
#J2063 Imperial Japanese Personal Effects Cloth Bag
Original WWII Imperial Japanese personal effects bag cloth bag. Carried by the soldier to hold things like photos, documents, and other valuables. Nice example. $60
#J2064 Imperial Japanese Personal Effects Cloth Bag
Original WWII Imperial Japanese personal effects bag cloth bag. Carried by the soldier to hold things like photos, documents, and other valuables. Nice example. $60
#J2059 Imperial Japanese Personal Effects Cloth Bag
Original WWII Imperial Japanese personal effects bag cloth bag. Carried by the soldier to hold things like photos, documents, and other valuables. Nice example. $60
#J2058 Imperial Japanese Personal "Comfort Bag"
Original WWII Imperial Japanese personal "comfort bag". Carried by the soldier to hold things like photos, documents, and other valuables. Nice example. $60
#J2045 Imperial Military Reservists Pin with Box
Original WWII Japanese Imperial Military Reservists Association / Veterans Association pin with original box of issue. This pin has Celluloid type backing, differing from the more common type with cloth ribbon. Excellent example. $40
#EC44 Japanese National Flag
Original WWII Japanese national flag measuring approximately 35" x 25" (Inches). Constructed of fine silk printed logo and hemmed edges with reinforced corners and strings for hanging or flying. Excellent condition, a common bring back souvenir from the Pacific theatre. $160
#J2019 Japanese Triumphant Return Banner
Original WWII Japanese “Triumphant Return” banner. This banner likely dates to either the Russo-Japanese war or First Sino-Japanese War. It was presented to a Soldier named Oka Tsurumatsu by a man named Shimizu Hideo. The banner is approximately 98" (Inches) in length and is complete with the original Pagoda style hanger. This example is really nice and unique in how it was made, with interesting outlining with dye, wax, and hand painted features. $275
#EC108 1937-1945 China Incident War Medal
Original 1937-1945 China Incident War Medal with ribbon. Established on July 27th, 1939 and awarded for service in China from 1937 to 1945 until abolished in 1946. Medal is made of bronze. Excellent condition. $25
#EC34 Japanese Cadet Wool Hat
Original WWII Japanese Cadet’s wool hat. Typical late war construction with mesh lining and paper chinstrap. Excellent condition overall, a little bit of mothing to the interior brim of the cap. Nice example. $120
#J2010 Japanese Sake Three Cup Set
Original WWII Japanese set of three Sake cups. In keeping with tradition, Japanese soldiers would drink Sake made from fermented rice as part of Shinto purification rituals, often before going into battle. These cups have some Japanese writing that translate into "Leaving the service commemoration” and "Ina-Sho Military Personnel Association”. $45
#J2011 Japanese Sake Cup
Original WWII Japanese Sake cup. In keeping with tradition, Japanese soldiers would drink Sake made from fermented rice as part of Shinto purification rituals, often before going into battle. There is some writing on the cup that translates to "15th Transport Discharge Commemoration” and a name on the backside of the cup, which appears to be “Asakuni". $25
#J2012 Japanese Sake Cup
Original WWII Japanese Sake cup. In keeping with tradition, Japanese soldiers would drink Sake made from fermented rice as part of Shinto purification rituals, often before going into battle. These cups have some Japanese writing that translate into "54th Infantry” and "Leaving the service commemoration” with the name on the backside of the cup being “Kozuka”. $25
#J2014 Door Sign for Members of the Imperial Military Reservists Association
Original WWII Japanese door badge / sign in relation to the Imperial Military Reservist Association. These door badges / signs would be mounted on members doors to show support for the association. This example is in nice condition, it measures approximately 5 x 15 cm. Background: The Imperial Military Reservist Association was a nationwide group that unified reservist groups, veteran groups, and martial associations. It was established in 1910 and allowed only Army personnel to join. In 1914, Navy personnel were also allowed. In a 1931 group census report, the nationwide membership was 2,581,109 Army-related members and 62,624 Navy-related members. The group disbanded (was abolished) in 1945. $50
#J2013 Door Sign for Members of the Imperial Military Reservists Association
Original WWII Japanese door badge / sign in relation to the Imperial Military Reservist Association. These door badges / signs would be mounted on members doors to show support for the association. This example is in nice condition, it measures approximately 5 x 15 cm. Background: The Imperial Military Reservist Association was a nationwide group that unified reservist groups, veteran groups, and martial associations. It was established in 1910 and allowed only Army personnel to join. In 1914, Navy personnel were also allowed. In a 1931 group census report, the nationwide membership was 2,581,109 Army-related members and 62,624 Navy-related members. The group disbanded (was abolished) in 1945. $50
#J2020 Imperial Military Reservist Association / Veteran Association Badges
Original pair of WWII Japanese Imperial Military Reservist Association / Veteran Association badges. Printed variant, likely produced late war during material shortages. Two perfect examples never cut or applied to a uniform. Background: The Imperial Military Reservist Association was a nationwide group that unified reservist groups, veteran groups, and martial associations. It was established in 1910 and allowed only Army personnel to join. In 1914, Navy personnel were also allowed. In a 1931 group census report, the nationwide membership was 2,581,109 Army-related members and 62,624 Navy-related members. The group disbanded (was abolished) in 1945. $25
#J2015 Wooden Box for Imperial Military Reservist Association Badge
Original WWII Japanese wooden box for the Imperial Military Reservist Association badge. Cool little hand crafted box. Background: The Imperial Military Reservist Association was a nationwide group that unified reservist groups, veteran groups, and martial associations. It was established in 1910 and allowed only Army personnel to join. In 1914, Navy personnel were also allowed. In a 1931 group census report, the nationwide membership was 2,581,109 Army-related members and 62,624 Navy-related members. The group disbanded (was abolished) in 1945. $20
#J2017 Cardboard Box for Imperial Military Reservist Association Badge
Original WWII Japanese cardboard box for the Women's Patriotic Association badge / pin. Cool little box in excellent condition. Background: The Imperial Military Reservist Association was a nationwide group that unified reservist groups, veteran groups, and martial associations. It was established in 1910 and allowed only Army personnel to join. In 1914, Navy personnel were also allowed. In a 1931 group census report, the nationwide membership was 2,581,109 Army-related members and 62,624 Navy-related members. The group disbanded (was abolished) in 1945. $20
#J2041 Japanese Soldiers Wearing Caps
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of two youthful soldiers posing wearing their military headgear. We have no further information on the fate of these soldiers. $20
#J2040 Japanese Soldiers Playing Guitar
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of a soldier playing guitar in front of another soldier. Appealing photograph, we haven't been to figure out exactly what's going on in it, but it looks interesting. We have no name or information on the fate of these soldiers. $20
#J2042 Japanese Soldier with Rising Sun Flags and Banners.
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of young soldier posing in front of a kiosk selling Rising Sun flags and banners. There is also a Japanese national flag in the photograph. The national flag of Japan is a rectangular white banner bearing a crimson-red circle at its centre. This flag is officially called Nisshōki (日章旗, the "flag of sun"), but is more commonly known in Japan as Hinomaru (日の丸, the "circle of the sun"). It embodies the country's sobriquet: Land of the Rising Sun. The Rising Sun Flag (旭日旗, Kyokujitsu-ki) is a Japanese flag that consists of a red disc and sixteen red rays emanating from the disc. Like the Japanese national flag, the Rising Sun Flag symbolizes the sun. We have no names or information on the fate these families or of the soldiers. $25
#J2039 Japanese Soldiers with Traditional Doll
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of a young soldier wearing his service cap, posing with his family or friends and a traditional Japanese doll, likely prior to departing for war. We have no name or information on the fate of this soldier. $20
#J2026 Japanese Soldier with National Flag
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of a young soldier posing with a national flag with some Kanji text written on it wrapped around him.The national flag of Japan is a rectangular white banner bearing a crimson-red circle at its centre. This flag is officially called Nisshōki (日章旗, the "flag of sun"), but is more commonly known in Japan as Hinomaru (日の丸, the "circle of the sun"). It embodies the country's sobriquet: Land of the Rising Sun. We have no name or information on the fate of this soldier. $25
#J2028 Japanese Soldier with Bike
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of a young soldier posing with bike and national flag with Kanji text hanging on his rifle. Appealing photograph that was also used as an official post card. We have no further information on the fate of this soldier. $25
#J2029 Japanese Soldier with Banners
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of a soldier posing with several military banners featuring Kanji text. Interesting photo. We have no further information on the fate of this soldier. $20
#J2030 Japanese Soldier near Wall
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of a soldier posing in front of a decorated wall. Interesting photo. We have no further information on the fate of this soldier. $20
#J2031 Japanese Soldier's Family with National Flags
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of a young soldier posing with his family and national flags before going to war. The national flag of Japan is a rectangular white banner bearing a crimson-red circle at its centre. This flag is officially called Nisshōki (日章旗, the "flag of sun"), but is more commonly known in Japan as Hinomaru (日の丸, the "circle of the sun"). It embodies the country's sobriquet: Land of the Rising Sun. We have no name or information on the fate this family or of this soldier. $20
#J2033 Japanese Soldiers and their Families with National Flags
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of young soldiers and their families posing with national flags, banners, and the flag of The Rising Sun before going to war. The national flag of Japan is a rectangular white banner bearing a crimson-red circle at its centre. This flag is officially called Nisshōki (日章旗, the "flag of sun"), but is more commonly known in Japan as Hinomaru (日の丸, the "circle of the sun"). It embodies the country's sobriquet: Land of the Rising Sun. The Rising Sun Flag (旭日旗, Kyokujitsu-ki) is a Japanese flag that consists of a red disc and sixteen red rays emanating from the disc. Like the Japanese national flag, the Rising Sun Flag symbolizes the sun. We have no names or information on the fate these families or of the soldiers. $20
#J2034 Japanese Soldier in Winter Kit
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of young soldiers dressed in winter kit. We have no name or information on the fate this soldier. $20
#J2036 Japanese Patriotic Women
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of patriotic women carrying flags of The Rising Sun. $15
#J2037 Japanese Patriotic Women
Original WWII Japanese wartime photograph of patriotic women with sashes and banner. $15
SOLD
#JJ5 Naval Aviator's Rising Sun Good Luck War Flag
Original WWII Japanese Rising Sun good luck flag that belonged to a Naval Aviator with period Kanji writing. The full translation with a diagram of everything on the flag will be provided to the buyer, and it does not disappoint. Some of the translation done by expert Dan King include; “Loyalty unto Martyrdom” “Shine with the spirit of the Sea Eagle (Naval aviator)” “Dash ahead straight and true to ensure peace in the Pacific” “Eagles wings will carry you out 10,000 RI and back" (A reference to a tiger roaming 10,000 RI but always returning to its den) “Cast one one's self and leave one's destiny to fate” “Fulfill the wishes of the emperor” and many other very interesting translations including some comments about the war with America. Very good condition showing the expected yellowing and age. *Sold*
#BS42 Imperial Japanese Army Type 90 Combat Helmet
Imperial Japanese Army type 90 combat helmet. The Army five point metal star is factory applied to the steel shell and the entire helmet has been factory painted in dark olive green. Complete helmer with full pigskin leather liner and and full length drawstring / chinstrap. The leather liner is a little stiff but much better than average condition. Former owners name has been hand painted in Kanji on the inner rim, but some of the factory olive paint has chipped underneath of it exposing bare steel making it impossible to read. Nice service used example in much better than average condition complete without damage. *Sold*
#J2048 Japanese National Flag with Kanji
Original WWII Imperial Japanese National Flag made of fine silk with authentic period Kanji writing. The Kanji characters in the centre show the name “Kurashiki Toshiichirou Kun” and in the centre there is the slogan “Buun Chokyu” which translates to “May your military fortunes be long lasting”. Consignor reports the flag came from Japan, and came with the red stitch belt that was sold last year. Japanese soldiers carried these flags into battle with them for good luck. *Sold*
#J2073 Japanese National Flag with Tiger
Original WWII Japanese National Flag made of fine silk with authentic tiger artwork applied for good luck prior to the soldier going off to war. We purchased this from a collector at the Show of Shows who was involved with researching these flags for the book "Battle Carried; Imperial Japanese Tiger Art Good Luck Flags of World War Two" and it is consistent with other period examples shown in the book. Japanese soldiers carried these flags with them into battle for good luck, and they were a popular souvenir taken by American and other Allied soldiers. This example is in good shape, showing genuine patina and age. The flag measures approximately 14" by 9” (Inches). *Sold*
#J2007 Type 14 Nambu Clamshell Holster
Rubberized canvas clamshell holster for the Type 14 Nambu pistol. The rubberized version was introduced around 1941-1942 when leather was getting scarce, so the Japanese were essentially bonding together canvas and latex. Another advantage of this material was that it was almost indestructible in tropical climates. This example is known as the Type IX with rubberized spare striker pouch. The only leather on this model is hinge that holds the clamshell closed and some various small bits. This part consisting of leather and small springs that closes the clamshell is pretty stiff now, but that is how these all are. The shell has a few shallow dents from use which is typical. Good overall example. *Sold*
#J2070 Silk Tiger Art
Original WWII Japanese fine silk tiger artwork. Small example measuring 7" x 5" (Inches) that the consignor reports was found inside the pocket of a thousand stitch belt. Features a shrine stamp as well as the artwork. Background; Tiger art was commissioned by soldiers in Imperial Japan for good luck prior to going to war, and no other animal served to inspire and motivate the Japanese warrior more than the magnificent tiger. Very appealing and unique piece. *Sold*
#J2078 Japanese ID Disc with Cord
Original WWII Imperial Japanese ID disc (Dog tag) with cord. This is a standard stamped Japanese ID disc with the often missing original cord still intact. This example is in worn condition showing evidence of likely having been worn in jungle conditions, and presumably a U.S. soldiers battle souvenir. Great example, and very difficult to find complete like this. *Sold*
#MP62 Good Luck National Flag Featuring a Samurai
Original WWII Japanese good luck National Flag that features a Samurai and period Kanji writing wishing good fortune in the war. A partial translation has been started and is included, you could have the remainder translated by someone like Dan King if you wish. Flags with Samurai’s and Tigers are some of the hardest to find. *Sold*
#MC1 Imperial Japanese Army Ankle Boots
Original WWII Imperial Japanese army enlisted member / NCO ankle boots. These boots are in excellent condition and likely never worn. Leather soles with horseshoes and hobnails all intact and not rusted, as well as really cool maker mark featuring three lines of kanji within a circle. Complete with original pull tabs intact and original laces. Size "5" marked inside the tongue these are a good size for a standard Japanese mannequin, they measure 29cm from toe-tip to heal. The perfect set to complete a Japanese mannequin or uniform display. *Sold*
#J2002 Japanese Arisaka Type 99 / 38 Canvas sling with Quick Detach Clips
Original WWII Japanese Arisaka Type 99 or Type 38 Canvas rifle sling with quick detachment clips. Overall good condition showing honest wear and some soiling with two spots of white paint. These are really tough to find on the loose and is ready to complete a Japanese rifle. *Sold*
#J2022 Japanese Type 30 Combat Bayonet
Original WWII Japanese Type 30 combat bayonet. Most examples of Japanese bayonets in collections are field worn with lost of pitting and loss of bluing from the jungle conditions in which they were recovered. This is the finest example of a Japanese bayonet we have handled, the blade is essentially mint condition and the rest of bayonet is 98%+ original bluing. There is a very faint name scratched into the handle and scabbard that appears to read “Skillet” presumably put there by the veteran who took it home. This is a top example really showcasing the quality and effort put into these bayonets by the Japanese. *Sold*
#BP50 Japanese Arisaka Rifle Ammunition Pouch
Original Imperial Japanese Arisaka rifle ammunition pouch. Standard early wartime production example manufactured from leather. Excellent condition example, most of these were destroyed from use or became rotten in the jungles of the Pacific, and it is difficult to find ones in very good condition. *Sold*
#J2055 Imperial Japanese “Senninriki” Flag
Original WWII Imperial Japanese “Senninriki” flag. Senninriki flags are more difficult to find than the standard good luck signature / wishes - types. The black characters are for the Kanji 'Riki' which translates to 'Power' when translated into English. These characters of power were suppose to help protect the wearer in battle.There are several areas where the following was also written in the flag “Bonzai!”, “I pray your Military fortunes are long lasting”, “Strive”, “Praying for hard work”, “Fight and struggle”, and also written "Mr. Kawakami, Prayers for a good fight” (Kawakami would be the recipient of this flag). The flag is in battle field captured condition, with lots of patina and possible battle damage to one corner as shown. Excellent example. *Sold*
#J2062 Imperial Japanese Tiger Art
Original WWII Imperial Japanese tiger art piece featuring impressive hand painted tiger and slogans. The artwork features the slogan “Buun Chokyu” (May your Military fortunes be long lasting) and was presented to a Mr. Yamanaka Michisuke. This piece is featured in the book "Battle Carried: Imperial Japanese Tiger Art Good Luck Flags of World War Two" by author Michael A. Bortner. *Sold*
#J2072 Japanese National Flag with Kanji
Original WWII Japanese National Flag made of fine silk with lots of authentic period Kanji writing and period stamps often applied when visiting shrines prior to departing for war. Japanese soldiers carried these flags with them into battle for good luck, and they were a popular souvenir taken by American and other Allied soldiers. This example is in good shape, showing genuine patina and age. The flag measures approximately 30" by 26” (Inches). Great example. *Sold*
#JJ4 Blooded Japanese National Flag with Kanji
Original WWII Japanese National Flag made from fine silk with blood drawn rising sun centre and some blood writing in period Kanji. In addition to the blooded features, there is a lot of additional Kanji writing done in black ink. The slogans and writing are the typical good luck gestures and hopes of defeating the enemy in battle. Japanese soldiers carried these flags with them into battle for good luck, and they were a popular souvenir taken by American and other Allied soldiers. This example is in good shape, showing a lot of genuine patina and age from being in the field. The flag measures approximately 28” by 28” (Inches) making it an ideal size for display. Scarce version and a great genuine example. *Sold*
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#LL5 Japanese Rising Sun Flag
Original WWII Japanese rising sun flag. The flag is good condition showing genuine age. These silk flags should be handled with care. The flag measures approximately 19 x 13“ (Inches). Great all around example. *Sold*
#J2076 Comfort Doll
Original Imperial Japanese period “comfort doll” with original packaging. These were given to young soldiers heading to the war, often from girls in their school. This version of the doll has a loop on the back, allowing it to be clipped onto a soldier’s equipment for good luck. Unique item and hard to find. *Sold*
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