During World War II, many Japanese officers from old family lineages took their highly prized, centuries-old family samurai blades out of traditional storage and had them fitted into modern military handles and scabbards (Type 98 mounts) to carry into battle. This specific item is a highly collectible example of that tradition: a beautiful, untouched 1867 antique masterpiece carried inside a World War II officer's uniform outfit | This WWII-era Japanese military sword (Type 98 Shin Gunto) features a rare, traditional antique blade (nihonto) in excellent condition. Forged during the dramatic final years of the samurai era (Bakumatsu period), the blade is completely unaltered and at its original length (ubu). The steel tempered edge displays a beautiful, wavy pattern (gunome midare), and the metal handle under the grip is signed by the master Swordsmith, reading "Arisada from the Higo Province" (Higo no Kuni Arisada), alongside a date of 1867 (Keio 3). The entire piece is exceptionally well-preserved and comes complete with its matching military parts and a green, glossy wooden scabbard (lacquered saya) |||| MEASUREMENTS: Scabbard Length: Approx. 30 in. | Blade Length (Nagasa - guard to tip): Approx. 27 in. | Total Blade Length (Tip to tang heel): Approx. 34.5 in.*Sourced from a reputable and trustworthy private collection*