WW2 Japanese Navy Kai-Gunto Sword with Smith-Made Blade

This is a smith – made sword, measuring 38 1/8" overall, that is marked along the tang.  The blade measures 27" with an o – kissaki tip and a lovely gunome temper line pattern with nie border.  The hilt is fitted with a typical black naval tsuba that has some minor wear along the edge, white metal-plated habaki, and multiple seppa.  The grip has an intact cord wrap black covering, although the original brass pommel bail has been replaced by a loop of brown nylon cord.  The fuchi – kashira are standard Imperial Navy issue, and the sword is housed in a polished sharkskin-covered wooden saya with double hanger bands and regulation mounts.  The sharkskin has delaminated along the panel edges in a few spots, but still offers full coverage.  This is a very nice example of a WW2 IJN sword, and would make a great addition to any collection.