Jim M,
Yes, you are right about these reversed swastikas - perhaps they were intended for the Azad Hind Legion!
As a matter of fact, Rob NL (over on the Sword forum, "RK Winner Sword...."etc) claims that he has spoken to the former owner of his sword with the reversed hakenkreuz, and that the man told him that he didn't notice it when he bought it! Well, it was January 1945, and I suppose he might have had other matters on his mind.
It is good to see that some collectors are doing serious research with their collections, rather than just handing over wads of money and then not appreciating what they have bought. It must just break their dealer's heart to realise that it is only a fiscal transaction, and not a subject of academic study.
FJS
