For your consideration is this mid 20th century, Model 1883 Officer's dress sword from the Japanese Navy. These swords are also known as Kyu-gunto swords, as well as Russo-Japanese swords and were used in the Russo-Japanese War, WWII and given for ceremonial uses. These swords were worn by officers in the Army, Cavalry, and Navy to denote their rank. This is a smaller than usual sword, with most having a 25 inch blade, this sports a 19 inch blade and smaller handle than usual. This sword has a brass hilt adorned with floral decorations, the Toyotomi Clan crest and a ribbed bakelite handle with woven wire in the ridges. The unsharpened, tempered, high carbon steel blade has an acid etched wavy yakiba/ hamon running the length of the entire length of the blade, as well as a fuller. The brass handle on the sword shows a nice patina from its age and slight scuff marks. The blade exhibits slight wear and chips present on one side. The blade does not come with a scabbard. It shows good condition overall with slight wear present and no signs of major damage noted. The blade measures 19" L x 3/4" W, with the handle measuring 5 1/2" L x 4" W x 2 1/4" D. From the bottom of the handle to the tip of the blade it measures 24" L. It has a total weight of 14 ounces.