Interesting observations on the handle material; I don't think that is rhino horn either as I believe that this handle has a tighter grain nor does it seem to have the same translucent appearance.
I think that a real clue could be the scabbard; I've seen that cut out, 4 pointed star somewhere before, maybe a Chinese polearm?The decorative lines around the star remind me of some of the designs on Boxer era Chinese banners or rank squares.
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