Signed 1943 Dated Japanese Army Officer Shin Gunto Sword

The sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 40 inches, with a blade length of approximately 26 inches. The blade is generally quite clean, showing some spots, scratches, and smudges, while displaying a visible temper line. The tang shows some spots of rust, with a single mounting hole, and the tang is signed “Masayuki” and dated in September of 1943. The grip is covered in sharkskin and it is wrapped in the traditional fashion with brown fabric, with the fabric having soiling from handling. Beneath the fabric on each side of the grip are the standard military menuki of three cherry blossoms. The tsuba guard is the solid variety with four relief cherry blossoms. The steel scabbard shows typical scuffs and scratches from use in the field, but the brown scabbard paint is generally intact. Overall very good condition.