Unusual pieces flying about!
I've been looking at Chinese swords for years, and this is the first time I've seen a jian with a ring hilt. And with the guard, it becomes very mysterious, as these are two identical features on early 20th century dadao. Compare with the pic below.
As for a "war jians", they were usually very Spartan in their decorations. Here's a pic of one that was offered by an antique military arms dealer a couple years ago.
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