Signed Japanese Showa Era Katana in Civilian Mounts with Signed Blade

The sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 37-1/2 inches, with a blade length of approximately 25 inches. The blade is very bright, while showing spots and minor scratches. The blade has a visible temper line and it is without chips, nicks, or active rust. The sword tang is signed 'Kaneshige'. His legal name was 'Morita Isamu' and he was born on November 13th 1900. He was a student of swordsmith Mizuta Seijirō Kunishige, and he signed first with 'Kanemasa' but he later changed his name in 1936 to 'Kaneshige'. He entered the Seki Guild Log on October 25 of Showa 14 (1939). The ray skin grip is wrapped in the traditional style with black fabric, beneath which are figural menuki . The tsuba guard is a decorative pierced style. The scabbard of the sword is black lacquered wood, which shows some wear and minor scuffs and with a black fabric cord ties to the scabbard. Overall excellent condition.