Signed 1945 Dated Shin Gunto Army Officer Sword

The late war shin gunto sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 39 inches, with a blade length of approximately 26 inches. The blade has scattered dark spots, scratches, inclusions, and surface dirt, while also displaying a visible temper line. The cutting edge of the blade has several small nicks. The tang is dated 'Showa 20 [1945], February' and it is signed 'Kanetsugu'. The grip is covered in light sharkskin, and it is tightly wrapped with brown fabric. Beneath the fabric on each side of the grip are the standard military menuki of three cherry blossoms, both dark from loss of the gilt finish. The tsuba guard is the solid style without decoration. The steel scabbard shows typical signs of use and age, with scratches and scuffs, but with the olive brown paint being largely intact. The scabbard throat fitting is lacking one screw. Overall the sword is in good field used condition.