General Tomoyuki Yamashita Signature Stamp

[dusty_shelf]

I recently acquired a Philippines banknote signed by Japanese general Tomoyuki Yamashita. It dates (1945-1946) to when he was held in prison in Manila awaiting trial for war crimes. In addition to his two handwritten signatures, there is also a signature stamp. The assumption would be it is his as well. However, there is another example of his stamp while in prison. It differs from that on the note. Is it possible he had two. Might one be more "official" or formal? I am hoping the forum members can help.

 

[Mikawa Ossan]

The stamp on the peso note does not say Yamashita. And this is interesting...the seals on other photo do say Yamashita, but they were stamped upside down.

 

[dusty_shelf]

There was also a General Akira Muto on trial at the same time. I have seen a number of examples where he and Yamashita signed the same notes. Could this be Muto's stamp.

 

[dusty_shelf]

 

[dusty_shelf]

I found this clearer example of Muto's signature. I see similarities with the first character.

 

[Majestic]

The big red seal on the 1 peso note does say Mutō (武藤). Impossible to ascertain from the information at hand if this came from General Mutō.

 

[dusty_shelf]

Thanks, Majestic! I am 100% confident this is General Muto! Also signing on another attached banknote is General Utsunomiya. He and Muto were part (Japanese) of Yamashita's defense counsel. Likewise, there is the signature of W. Hamamoto, Yamashita's interpreter. He is seen in the group photo. With the Muto signature stamp, this completes the cast of characters!