This WWII-era Japanese army officer’s military sword (Type 98 Shin Gunto) features a highly prized, hand-forged antique samurai sword (nihonto katana) inside its military fittings. Forged in 1547 (Tembun 16), the blade is completely unaltered and at its original length (ubu). It was hand-crafted by Sukesada, a member of a legendary and famous lineage of swordsmiths working out of the historic Bizen province (Bizen no Kuni Osafune Sukesada). The steel displays a beautiful, wavy heat-tempered edge pattern characteristic of the region (Bizen-style gunome midare). Brought out of family storage to be carried into battle during World War II, the entire piece remains in excellent condition, complete with its original army-issue matching parts (fittings) and a green-painted protective wooden scabbard (saya) |||| MEASUREMENTS: Scabbard Length: Approx. 29-5/8 in. | Blade Length (Nagasa - guard to tip): Approx. 26 in. | Total Blade Length (Tip to tang heel): Approx. 34.5 in.*Sourced from a reputable and trustworthy private collection*