Recently, there was a feature about the real De Valette’s sword, which is held at St Lawerence’s Church in Vittoriosa.

My interest in martial arts, especially those which include swords, led me to discover another interesting sword at the same church museum.

During one visit to this museum I noticed a Japanese Katana (Samurai sword) lying at the back of a showcase filled with votive offerings. I asked the curator about this sword and was told that it was donated to the museum by a man from Vittoriosa who served with the American Army in Burma during World War II. I asked if I could come on another day and examine the sword closely.

Thanks to the curator, I was allowed to inspect and photograph the sword in order to do some research. It proved to be an officer’s sword, machine manufactured around 1942/43. It also has a distinct safety catch so that it can only be drawn if a button is pressed.

The sword was accompanied by a faded note which said: “This war trophy is presented by John L. Zahra – US Army – to my Patron Saint as a thanks giving for my safe return from war danger in Burma.”

I was told that certain relatives of Mr Zahra still live at Vittoriosa and I would be glad to meet them and discuss certain details related to Mr Zahra and the sword.

Although the sword is in relatively good condition, it needs some maintenance. Closer inspection of the handle under the cover should also reveal who the maker was and if there is any special motto engraved by the original owner. The note also needs to be preserved as it is already turning brown.

I hope that this letter will prove as an inspiration to further appreciate this unique sword.