The original auction pictures seem to show charring of the wooden hilt, indicating that it had been in a fire. No self respecting Moro would have left such a valuable (and historic?) sword in this condition, so it seems this could have been a battlefield pick-up, perhaps by a US serviceman during one of the conflicts with Moro insurgents in the early 1900s. If that is the case, I would not restore the hilt as it may be an important part of the sword's history.
Even though this sword is plainly dressed, definitely a "fighter," it is a fine example of a very good quality older kris blade perhaps owned by a prominent person. Do you have any provenance from the seller?
Ian.
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