This unsigned tantō measures 21.6 cm (8.5 in.) in blade length and is mounted in a custom-made oversized Imperial Japanese Navy dirk mounting, indicating that the blade was privately selected by its owner rather than being a standard-issue weapon.
The blade features a well-forged itame-hada with a bright, well-defined suguha hamon executed primarily in nioi. One particularly interesting characteristic is that the hardened edge extends onto the back ridge, creating a continuous yakiba that runs along the spine—a relatively uncommon feature often associated with blades influenced by the Sōshū tradition.
Although unsigned, the overall workmanship suggests a late Edo-period manufacture (approximately 1750–1820). The refined suguha, tight nioiguchi, and well-controlled forging are consistent with the practical yet elegant workmanship of many provincial smiths of the period.
Combined with its bespoke naval officer's mounts, this piece represents an attractive combination of an earlier traditionally forged Japanese blade and a unique military presentation, making it appealing to both collectors of Japanese swords and Imperial Japanese Navy militaria.