Identification of this sword.

[Beau]

Posting for a friend of mine, and this is a the story behind the sword.

Hello! My name is Tyler, I am trying to help my grandpa learn more about his sword. His step father got it in Japan when he was there after the war. Supposedly it belonged to a non commissioned officer. I don’t know much about these swords but I want to learn with him! I could be wrong but I believe the inscriptions identifies the sword as being crafted by Tanba no Kami Yoshimichi.

so far we have establish the sword is Japanese, wooden handle, signature (mei) on the tang, and that’s as far as we seem to be able to go. If anyone has any idea or info it would be much appreciated!

[Ray Singer]

Signed Tanba (no) kami Yoshimichi. Unfortunately though this does not appear to be an authentic example of his inscription. The blade looks to be Showa era, and it is not uncommon to see gimei ( false inscriptions) purporting to be famous Shinto swordsmiths produced at that time. 

[mecox]

Tamba no Kami Yoshimichi, there were 4 or 5 of the line in mid-late 1600's.  Ray could be correct re gimei.  Blade pic looks rather new. However, good quality early war mounts for officer, not NCO and look original.

Mal

[Beau]

56 minutes ago, Ray Singer said:

Signed Tanba (no) kami Yoshimichi. Unfortunately though this does not appear to be an authentic example of his inscription. The blade looks to be Showa era, and it is not uncommon to see gimei ( false inscriptions) according to be famous Shinto swordsmiths produced at that time. 

Do you think this sword would be worth getting appraised or any idea on the rarity of this type/condition?

[Ray Singer]

A sword with a gimei (fake inscription) will not receive kanteisho (certification papers). I would enjoy the sword as it is.

[Bruce Pennington]

As stated, a Type 98 Japanese officer sword.  You can see examples anArmy Commissioned Officers Gunto 1938