Type 98 Shin Gunto Japanese Army Officer's Katana Sword made shortly before or early WWII. The blade is in generally fair condition with the hamon (Clay Tempering) barely visible in the common Sanbon Sugi or 3 ceders style found on Shin Gunto. The mei (signature) reads "Toshika", whose civilian name was Yamada Shuzo, born May 28th 1895 and passed February 20th 1973.  He was documented for making Gunto during the war. The nakago(Tang) is in good original condition with no evidence of cleaning or tampering. The copper habaki (Scabbard Grip) seems to be original with the original silver wash still present. The blade has many scratches as well as some very light surface rust and chips. The tsuka ito (Handle Binding) is tight and secure with samegawa (rayskin) still present and intact.  The fittings are loose with some seppa missing, also with a loose saya which is common for blades of this age.  A cut down Rising Sun flag has been attached through the suspension ring and appears to be period?   
 
Blade Length : 65cm
Overall Length : 94cm