Extremely rare rifle right here. Once in a lifetime opportunity

Kokura Arsenal type 97 sniper's rifle, serial number 43xx, placing it as being produced early to mid 1939. Numbers on the rifle are matching. Imperial Chrysanthemums are intact. Ladder sight is present (the type 97 did not have anti-aircraft sights). Bore is good. Stock has seen some better days, but imagining the life this rifle has had, I think its in pretty good shape. All that it is missing is the mono-pod

The scope is not the original Kokura production issued with this rifle, but it is an original 2.5x10 riflescope produced by the Nagoya factory under Imperial Japan made specifically for the type 97. Same scope, differnt factory. The glass certainly isnt up to modern standards, but its clear enough, and usable.

There are maybe 3 examples of all matching Type 97s left. Having one that matches, with intact mums, and originally produced scope, albeit from a different arsenal, is extraordinarily rare.

I have 20 rounds of new production Bannerman 6.5 ammunition to go with it

I am not in need to sell this rifle. If I could sell it in time to finish my wishlist prior to July, it'll hurt, but I can justify it. If not, I will happily keep it on my wall the rest of my life

Asking $7,000. Steep, but I'd ask to see a price for one somewhere wise

Particular trade interests include
1. Galil Ace Gen 2 in 5.45x39 (or similar quality AK pattern)
2. International Harvester M1 Garand
3. Japanese Nambu
4. Beretta 80x Cheetah in 32acp
5. PS90