This is the type of sword that I enjoy on occasion. A "what the hell is this thing". It has some interesting combination of elements that caught my eye and I wanted to investigate further. The blade is rather Chinese in shape and fullering. I also thought the same as you , Rick, about the metal decoration on the scabbard. Seems Taiwanese. The Arabic script is interesting and I also noticed the date and thought it added to the mystery of the sword. The fingered, grooved grip is interesting as well and the attempt of an habaki and tsuba are obviously imitation of Japanese. Once I have it in hand I can make further assumptions. A good curio that most probably has an interesting story to tell.
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