Type 19 Japanese Army Cavalry Officer Sword

Introduced in 1886, the sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 35 inches with a blade length of approximately 28-1/2 inches. The Type 19 cavalry sword is the dress, or 'parade', version, with a chromium plated blade and which was assembled with a bolt in the top of the pommel (The sword was also produced in a 'combat' version, with the sword assembled using the menuki peg in the grip). The plated blade is generally bright, with a visible false temper line and it is free of nicks, chips, or active rust, while having a film of old dirt and grime as well as some spots and scratches. The brass basket guard has a pommel and back strap decorated with cherry blossoms to indicate a company grade officer, and all have an uncleaned patina. The grip itself shows some wear but it is without chips or cracks. The plated scabbard shows speckling of the finish on both sides, with scattered small indentations which do not effect the ability to draw or sheath the sword.