I've had this piece for many years and was trying to identify it recently. I think it is a type 98 as the scabbard most closely resembles those rather than the type 95. I was wondering if I might get some help identifying and confirmation of it's authenticity.
The handle is wood with a leather wrap. I'm unable to find a pin to remove the handle and I'm loath to mess with the wrap in case it's original. There are stamped markings on the blade, the artwork on the tsuba is hard to make out but it looks like there are wings. Again, I don't want to clean it and damage any value. The tsuba appears to be brass. The scabbard is wood wrapped in metal.
The hanger appears to be brass. The scabbard and hilt cap seem to be something else. They have a copper color but no green patina.
The blade is not sharp but I believe it is steel. (Magnet sticks)
Can anyone shed some light?
Thanks,
Deke
