Trying to learn about this Type 32 ko

[EGB]

I am tying to learn about this type 32 ko I found at an antique store. I don't know too much about Military swords but it seems that these are rarely faked, so I figured that there was a high chance that its genuine at least. I would appreciate your all's help in learning more about it.

 

I have found four stamps on the knuckle bow. I think Ive Identified two of them. One is a Kokura arsenal stamp I think, though it is very poorly struck and really only the outside edges are visible. Another i believe is a Kokura inspection stamp. Did I get that right? can anyone ID the other two stamps?

 

The blade and saya do have matching serial numbers, 18996, but they are weird. On the saya another serial number was crossed out and 018996 was stamped on below, and on the blade it looks like they added a zero in front to make it match. I'm guessing that this was part of some factory refurbishment, any other theories? Could the Serial no. help narrow down when It was made?

 

To me it seems to be in good condition, the latch works perfectly and it is still very sharp. I can see evidence of it being sharpened with a file, which I think I read somewhere on this form was done. The leather loop seems to me like it was cut off to me, but the rivet that held on is there and the remains of the leather are under it. The blade is about 32.5 in long so Im assuming this would be the cavalry style.

 

Thank you in advance,

Edward

[EGB]

more picures

[Conway S]

Edward, 

 

Nice find. You correct in assuming this one has been depot refurbished during its service. The "0" is a clear indication. As you may have already read, the date is usually stamped on the guard where the current markings are found. In addition to  the 小, the other markings are seal script inspection marks, which may correlate to an individual inspector. The undated guards are typically earlier production. The scabbard throat piece on this example is also less common. Here is a great link with lots of solid info on Type 32s and other military swords:

 

http://ohmura-study.net/962.html 

 

Conway