Japanese Short Sword, ca. 1840-70 Meiji, Satsuma Rebellion?

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Japanese Short Sword, ca. 1840-70 Meiji, Satsuma Rebellion?:
$155.00

This sword would be a fascinating research project. I attribute this sword to Japan, maybe the Meiji period, and probably made for a Naval officer since it has a seahorse on the crossguard. Another feature which leads me to believe it is for Naval use is the brass and copper used in the construction. During the Satsuma revolution, military units were often armed with short swords, as were artillery units in the Russo-Japanese War in 1905. I have listed it in the WWII category as well as Japanese Antiques/Swords because it is likely that the sword was brought to the States after WWII.It has a chrysanthemum on the pommel and the riccasso, plus other floral designs on the blade. The engravings on the brass guard and on the blade are all hand cut and not stamped. The handle is tightly wrapped with copper and brass intertwined wire. One mystery symbol is the HK initials on the crossguard opposite the seahorse. It may be a presentation piece to a notable Western individual. More research may turn up some interesting history. Measurement are 20 3/4\" blade length, 25 1/4 OAL I must caution the new owner to use gloves when handling this sword -- over the years, tiny thin strands of copper or brass wire have broken and tend to stick your sword hand. They are invisible, but maybe someone with a magnifier can spot them and smooth them off. There are only one or two and they in no way endanger the wrap coming loose.
The are no fullers and the blade has a small ridge running its length on both sides for strength. There appears to be no attempts to sharpen the blade since it was made, and it has a cutting edge. The handle and guard were heavily coated with lacquer when made and retain most of the original shine. This is a beautiful weapon with good balance, hand forged by a sword maker with exceptional talent.