WWII Japanese Army Officer Shin Gunto Sword with Older Unsigned Hand Forged Blade

The sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 39 inches with a blade length of approximately 24 inches. The blade has some scratches, spots, and several barely perceptible nicks and dark inclusions on the cutting edge. The blade exhibits a distinct temper line. The tang exhibits two holes and it is unsigned. The tsuba is the pierced style with gilt finish and cherry blossom motif. The grip is covered in light ray skin, with a wrap in the traditional fashion in brown tape. Beneath the wrap on each side are the standard military menuki with three cherry blossoms. The metal scabbard retains virtually all of its original brown paint. Overall the sword is in very good condition.