Rod, 
 
I agree with Henk, this is a shin gunto of WW 2 era.  The cast alloy hilt identifies it as a NCO's sword rather than an officers whixh usually had binding. 
 
I have one of each and both are stamped with western numbers like yours is.  Does anyone know why this is ? 
 
Regards 
Royston
		 
		
		
		
		
		
		
		
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