Kamikaze pilot headband for opinions...

[dzyner]

Hi all.

I came across this Kamikaze pilot headband and would like some opinions. I've researched known originals and from what I can tell this fits the bill. I know there were versions for civilian wear as well, but I do not think this is one of them. That said, since I'm not versed in this area I'd love some feedback from more experienced collectors here...

















Thanks!
Dzyner

[ghp95134]

必勝
Hisshō
Certain victory

豊田部隊
Toyota Butai
Toyota Corps/Troop

I do not know the significance of the Toyoda Butai, can't find a quick Google reference. Let's hear what Nick Komiya might have to say.

--Guy

[dzyner]

Thanks Guy. Are you ok with it overall in terms of authenticity?

[ghp95134]

I am not a collector or expert. With that said, however .... the tenugui has the "Been There" look to it. Based on the photo alone (not in hand), it looks authentic to me.

--Guy

[Larry C]

Hi Darren I aagree also with Guysan..to wait for Nick Komiya. I have one of these headbands also..but in newer condition seen below in this thread

Kamikaze pilot headband

These headbands were also given out to factory workers to show their Patriotism for the Kamikaze pilots. Although your Headband looks to be authentic..the burning question..is who wore it? I took My head band to the 2014 Max show..and was told it may be a copy..yet a ton of detail in the thread I posted below shows alot of cotton seed still being retained in the cloth.

I was under the false impression it was a pilots headband. I Know Nick Komiya would be able to narrow down the images used on your example you posted if they were correct for a pilot or a worker. Nice find Regards Larry

[dzyner]

Thanks guys. I will wait to hear from Nick Komiya. Hopefully he will share his thoughts.

[Stu W]

What are the dimensions of the item?

Regards,
Stu

[dzyner]

Hi Stu. The dimensions are 13 1/2" x 36"

[asterperious]

IMO Not likely to be kamikaze specifically. The Hachimaki - head scarf - was widely used an still is for use in inspirational circumstances or those requiring perseverance: school, sports days, political rallies, and in this case I would interpret it as being worn for a rally or similar function by a staff member of a Toyota factory patrol/security force (my understanding of the function of company butai at any rate) or to guard slave labour at their factories.
It looks like it has been trimmed I think and is missing the tail tapes or extra cloth to secure it tied at the back of your head.

[RussM]

My understanding of original kamikaze headbands is that they were hand made, not printed.

The printed versions have been given the in-correct title, as these were generally worn by civilians working in factories etc. I will see if I can find a pic to illustrate this.

Regards

Russ