Japanese WWII Type 32 Enlisted Sword, Otsu Model

Sword and metal sheath. A clean example of a pattern of sword adopted in Meiji 32 (1899), in two styles, Ko, with a 32 3/4 inch blade, and Otsu, with a 30 1/2  inch blade. Our example is the Otsu pattern, as issued NCO's, Drivers, Military Police and other enlisted men requiring the issue of a sword.   The polished steel blade is clean with scattered surface abrasions, no nicks in the cutting edge, or corrosion issues. Serial numbered on the ricasso, 64120, which does not match the number on the scabbard drag. Stamped steel guard missing with its leather finger loop, however the mounting hole is there indicating that his is an early production sword. Heavy steel backstrap which displays a deep checked design, matching the original finish wooden grip. Side locking mechanism is present but does not catch in the scabbard throat. Cleaned dark patina finish scabbard, with scattered denting along it's length. Serial number 99831 on the drag.