WWII Imperial Japanese Navy Sake Bottle Manchuria Victory Commemorative

  

This is an original WWII Imperial Japanese Navy commemorative sake bottle (tokkuri), issued to celebrate the safe return and victory ("Gaisen Kinen") of Japanese naval forces. The inscription reads " " (Manki Kinen Gaisen = Full Term Service & Victory Commemoration).

The front features a hand-decorated anchor and cherry blossom, classic symbols of the Imperial Japanese Navy. During WWII, it was a tradition in Japan for military units to commission sake bottles and cups for soldiers as personal souvenirs for special occasions-such as safe return from deployment, discharge from service, or unit victories.

This bottle is a rare survivor, especially as most Navy items were lost during the war. Why is the Navy rare? The Imperial Japanese Navy was much smaller than the Army, and suffered devastating losses. As a result, Navy commemorative items like this are much rarer than Army pieces, making them especially collectible. What does the writing mean?

(Manki Kinen) = Full Term Service Commemoration. (Gaisen) = Triumphal Return / Victory. The anchor with cherry blossom = Symbol of the Imperial Navy.

Why did soldiers get these? For Japanese soldiers and sailors, these commemorative bottles were more than just souvenirs-they were tokens of survival, brotherhood, and pride.

After dangerous service abroad (like in Manchuria or the Pacific), returning home safely was a moment of relief and joy. Sake bottles like this were often used in farewell and reunion parties, symbolizing both remembrance and celebration. Perfect for military collectors, historians, or anyone fascinated by personal stories behind WWII artifacts.

It is also a window into Japanese culture and the emotional lives of soldiers at that time. Own a Piece of History.