Type 98 Shin Gunto Japanese Army Officer's Katana Sword made shortly before or early WWII. The blade is in very good condition with the hamon (Clay Tempering) clearly visible in the common Sanbon Sugi or 3 ceders style found on Shin Gunto. The polish is very original, being one of the best we have seen from this time, with only a few spots of rust and scuffs here and there.  The mei (signature) reads "Kanemitsu", of which there were quite a few using this name and making Gunto during the war. The nakago(Tang) is in good original condition with no evidence of cleaning or tampering. The copper habaki (Scabbard Grip) seems to be original with the gold wash still present.  The tsuka ito (Handle Binding) is relatively tight and secure featuring samegawa (rayskin) with the higher quality Emperor Node.  The fittings are a little loose but there no seppa missing, again with the higher quality pierced tsuba.  The saya is original to the sword with the sword catch still working as it should, however the leather field cover is in poor condition.  The sword also retains its original lieutenants sword knot in very good condition.  As this sword is in very original condition, with the higher quality tsuba, same and complimentary sword knot, we highly recommend it for WWII collectors.
 
Blade Length : 70cm
Overall Length : 98cm