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I have my grandfather's WW2 souvenir Katana he acquired at Labuan. I had a well renowned expert examine it and despite not being able to remove the handle (we both agreed not to force it) commented it is not a Shin Gunto and is likely signed/dated pre-1900 based on the style and the fact the saya is leather bound - quite uncommon. The tsuba is quite ornate, the ray skin is still perfect, and the tsuka was once white.
I've treated the blade carefully with urushi oil for years.
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