Type 32 Otsu model Japanese cavalry saber, ca. early 1900s, the blade measuring 30 in. and 35 in. overall. The checkered grip is of wooden construction, along with a blued steel hand guard, and an intact metal locking spring tab. The steel blade is exceptionally clean, bearing no rust, scratches, or dents, and marked at the ricasso with the serial number ‘66923’. Unidentified arsenal stamps opposite of the serial number. Housed within a black painted steel scabbard, marked at the base with the serial number ‘66923’, matching that on the blade. The scabbard comes with a single suspension ring. Minimal wear the blued finish of the hand guard, overall a near perfect example. About 80,000 of these swords were made between 1899 and 1936, and remained in service through the end of World War II.