WW2 Japanese Unit Marked Type 99 NAVY Special Bayonet from Kure Arsenal with Rubberized Scabbard & Frog

Here is a World War II Japanese Type 99 Naval Special bayonet made at the Kure Naval Arsenal.

This is a very rare bayonet, as only 3000 Type 99 Naval Special rifles were ever made.

This is the only Japanese bayonet made during World War II that had an integral frog and scabbard.  As you can see, it was made in a mold where in rubber or latex was injected into the mold.

Prior to injection, the mold contained a stiff scabbard, likely made of wood due to the lightweight nature of the scabbard and integral frog. Before injection, the loosely woven cotton canvas frog was connected to the scabbard.

This bayonet is also unique amongst Japanese World War II bayonets in that the cross guard was pinned in place using two steel pins as you can see.

In addition, the shape of the cross guard itself did not follow the same pattern as other Japanese type 30 bayonets. It is shorter than all others.

Unlike early World War II blades, this blade was blued.

As you can see, this one is unit marked on the frog, both with numbers and Kanji character. The Kanji character could be the name of the sailor to whom this bayonet was issued.

The belt loops are still open so this could be hung on a belt for display.