Early Type 95 NCO - Real or Fake?

[Kaiser21]

I've been offered this Type 95 by a Militaria collector who is down sizing.  I just bought a very nice 2nd Model Kreigsmarine Officer dagger from him so I suspect he knows what he's doing in at least one area of Militaria collecting.

 

This sword however gives me a bad feeling. It appears to be an early production model based on the copper Tsuka and that would make it relatively rare. 

 

Things that don't sit right with me are:

 

The habaki is a mess and the strange characters are a red flag. 

 

The serial number seems too high to be in the range of early production. 

 

There is only one discernable arsenal stamp.

 

I think it's a fake but I'm still new at this area of collecting so I'd hate to pass up an early production example by misjudging it. 

 

I'd appreciate it if someone can tell me I'm wrong here. 

 

[Kiipu]

Steve, it is a Chinese reproduction from about 20-25 years ago.  When time permits, take a look at the link below.

IJA Type 95 NCO Sword Info

[Brian]

Bad.
Flags on habaki = instant fake

[drb 1643]

Run Forest run!
Tom

[Kaiser21]

Gentlemen:

 

Thanks for your prompt and decisive replies.

 

I guess the good news here is I've learned something about these swords and recognized a probable fake when I saw it.

 

I'll have to give the potential seller the bad news that he's been had.  Based on my dealings with him to date I believe that he genuinely thinks he has a good sword here.

 

Thomas:  I did have a look at the thread you linked to.  Good information that I've saved for future reference.

 

Tom:  Gotta have a sense of humour these days !  That got a chuckle from me.

 

Cheers:

 

Steve