( I tried to answer an email from a Mr L Hollan s-----a@1917hotmail.com it was returned please resend your email address as I had more info for you. )1877 or 1899, Military Sword's of Japan by Fuller + Gregory state that it is pattern 1877, + that it apeared till 1886? Others call it 1890 + 1899. Pattern Japanese Cavalry Troopers Sword, Blade is pretty decent has been sharpened at one time,may have been done during time of use, would clean or polish to very good cond, sword has been painted black , with handle, a tan or orange, would strip pretty easy if one desired to do so.