Inakamerika

Hi everyone, first post. My friend has this sword and asked me to find out some info on it since I can speak Japanese and read the mei on it. I already have images hosted here, since some are quite large. So far I have been able to figure out this info, thanks to people on other sites who know more about swords than I do: Can't seem to find a sakura or a Seki stamp. is the 二九八 on the Tsuba just a note for fitting/serial number? Also can anyone comment on the (AFAIK) unique woven scabbard covering (possibly rattan?). I'm in OR, where would be a good place to take this for more IRL info?