And the star blades, gendaito, go for higher prices when the seller knows what he has.
Reposting @SteveM's comment about the "Toshin" for ease:
"In this case, Tōshin (東神) is a part of a longer name 日本刀東神鍛錬所 Japanese Sword Tōshin Forge. "Eastern Deity" is the direct, literal translation of the two characters that comprise the word tōshin, but in this case I think its just a name, and it alludes to the smith being affiliated with that particular forge. "
I have one other Masakuni on file, used "Toshin" in the mei, and 3 Masashige. Interested in hearing from Mal on this. [edited. Had 2 Masakuni, but turned out they were the same sword, posted by 2 different guys]
And waiting to hear back on the star and mune number. I have another Masashige with the number "71". Could not confirm it's location as it came from the text describing the blade on a sale page.
Steve,
Posting links to Nick Komiya's revelations about the history, making, and marketing of the Rinji seishiki, or Type 3, or Contengency model, Type 44, Marine Landing Sword. For those who don't follow links, the executive summary: Designed in 1938, using a loophole in the Type 98 Emperor authorization, to be a cheaper, more durable sword than the 98. Never was given an official designation (however turns out NONE of the officer swords were actually called "Type XX" by the military). Marketed in 1940, didn't really catch on until 1943 and on. An Army sword, not Navy, not Marine.
True Significance of the Contengency Model sword Mistakenly Called the Type 3
Unveiling the Rinji-seishiki - 1940