WWII Japanese Silver Mounted Army Officer’s Shin Gunto Sword Signed Esaka Yoshikuni

The standard issue Japanese Army officer’s sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 39-1/2 inches, with a blade length of approximately 25-7/8 inches. The sword blade is mostly bright and shows a visible and distinct temper line.  There are a few small dark spots. The tang has a single mounting hole and bears the signature of “ Esaka Yoshikuni”. The ray skin grip is wrapped in the traditional style with deep green fabric, with the wrap in excellent condition. Beneath the wrapping are the standard military menuki of three cherry blossoms both over layed with silver family crests. The handle mounts and scabbard mounts are either silver or silver plated – not gilted as generally seen. The pommel cap is pushed in at its peak. The tsuba guard is the solid gilt style, with relief cherry blossoms. The brown painted metal scabbard is in excellent condition retaining all of its original paint.