Hello, this item is an Imperial Japanese Army Type 32 Otsu military sabre, the shorter version of the Model 1899 regulation sword. The approximately 30-inch, slightly curved machine-made blade, full-length fuller, steel D-shaped guard, chequered grip and steel scabbard are characteristic of the Otsu pattern issued primarily to Army NCOs and other non-cavalry branches. The serial number 73296 is clearly stamped at the ricasso. Based on known Type 32 Otsu serial sequences, this example likely dates to approximately the late Meiji period, circa 1907–1910. It therefore predates the Korean War considerably, although a Korean War-era family association could relate to when the sword was acquired rather than when it was manufactured.

The sword appears substantially complete with its original-pattern steel scabbard and retains a relatively clean blade, while the guard, grip fittings and scabbard show oxidation, patination, handling wear and surface loss consistent with military age and storage. The original leather finger loop appears absent, which is common on surviving Type 32 examples. A matching serial number on the scabbard would increase collector desirability, but this cannot be confirmed from the supplied photographs. Type 32 Otsu sabres remain collectible examples of Imperial Japanese military equipment, although they are considerably more common and less valuable than traditionally forged Japanese officer swords. In the present condition, with scabbard but without confirmed matching numbers or exceptional provenance, the following values are appropriate.

Fair Market Value: $350–$550 USD