Imperial M3/Viner Bros M6 question

[Tmartin]

I was notified I may have posted in a sub forum where others couldn’t respond so I am attempting to repost. 
 

Hello, I recently was given this knife after my grandfather passed. I am trying to verify the authenticity and see there is a lot of possibility of reproductions for these knives. Any guidance would be appreciated. I am not a big collector so I don’t have access to the Walter’s books I have seen referenced multiple times

[Tmartin]

[Gear Fanatic]

M3 looks original, the grip looks good, worn, doesn’t have the bad sizing and shaping of repros. I’m not sure about the scabbard though, looks a little to good to be true, if the knife looks like that and the scabbard looks near perfect, I feel something is off. It could be me being to weary, because these are faked a lot… I would let the experts decide. Just my amateur opinion.

 

Gear Fanatic

 

[SKIPH]

TMartin-The Imperial guard marked M3 is legit. The Viner Bros M6 scabbard is also legit, but due to the newer condition, I suspect it was a later replacement. It just does not have the wear and tear to match the knife.  SKIP

[Tmartin]

So what would that mean in terms of value? I’m not looking to sell, but want to know if it ever comes to that as a need. I’m not a collector, but it has the sentimental value of “having always been in dad’s collection” as my dad said. I know prices are all over the place depending on makes and such based on the little research I’ve done. TIA! 

[OldmanWilson]

I'm no expert, and this is just my opine. The knife is certainly not original to the sheath, as the 1943 leg drop sheaths were issued with the blade dated knives of 43. The latter blade marked and guard marked would have been issued with the usm8 scabbard. The knife depending on condition and maker (Imperial $300-450) while the scabbards have been selling upwards of $600-800 

Very nice, enjoy the heirloom.