Signed WWII Japanese Pilot or Armored Officer Wakizashi Short Sword in Shin Gunto Mounts and Leather Combat Cover

The wakizashi short sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 25 inches, with a blade length of approximately 16-3/4 inches, and it is mounted in Shin Gunto mounts, being the short sword that would have been carried in a tank by an army officer or by a pilot in the cockpit. The blade is quite bright, showing surface grime and small inclusions, but without nicks, chips or active rust, while also displaying a visible temper line. The tang has a single mounting hole, and the tang is signed 'Kanemichi', with the tang having the full inscription of 'Izumi no Kami Kanemichi'. The grip is covered in light sharkskin, and it is wrapped in the traditional fashion with golden brown fabric. Beneath the fabric on each side of the grip are the standard military menuki of three gilt cherry blossoms, with the toned gilt finish being intact. The tsuba guard is the solid variety with four relief cherry blossoms, with a single hole for an attachment strap to the leather scabbard cover. The wooden scabbard is contained within a medium brown leather combat cover. The cover has spots, scratches, and wear, but the cover is otherwise complete and intact. Overall the sword is in excellent condition.