Signed WWII Army Officer Shin Gunto Sword with Company Officer Tassel

The sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 41 inches, with a blade length of approximately 26 inches. The blade is generally very clean, while exhibiting spots and scratches, as well as some very minor speckling, while also displaying a visible and very distinct temper line. The blade is without nicks, chips, or active rust. The tang has a single mounting hole, and the tang is signed 'Seki Maekawa Kanetsugu Saku' ('Made by Maekawa Kanetsugu [of] Seki'). The legal name of the swordsmith 'Kanetsugu' was 'Maekawa Gen'ichi ', who entered the Seki Guild Log on October 26 of Showa 14 [1939]. He was born on January 15th, 1904, and he died on March 9th, 1951. The grip is covered in toned, light sharkskin with minor chips, and it is wrapped in the traditional fashion with blue green fabric. Beneath the fabric on each side of the grip are the standard military menuki of three gilt cherry blossoms. The tsuba guard is the solid variety with four relief cherry blossoms. Tied to the hilt of the sword is the blue and brown tassel of a Company grade Army officer, showing sun fading but being complete and intact. The steel scabbard retains most all of its olive brown paint. Overall the sword is in excellent field used condition.