Stephen,
That mark is a new one on me. My guess is that it is an ethnographic marking, not European. One mark is near the cross guard's "down piece" while the other side is some 6 inches below the cross guard. That seems to deviate from a "factory" style mark. Other more experienced members may better comment on whether it is an imitation of a European style mark. Could be a "construction" using simpler punches as in Lew's magnificent arm dagger. Also, I like the apparently planned asymmetry. Looks a little like a human form and done on purpose, maybe using a broken punch.
Another good mystery!!
Best regards,
Ed
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