Sterling Teapot from approx. 1940's - 50's

Got this Teapot from an estate sale.  The family lived overseas a great many years in the mid 1900's, and I believe they were stationed in Japan for some time also.  Most of the items obtained are European.  This one has an oriental marking on the bottom, but have not been able to find anything like it online.  I would be inclined to guess that it is Japanese rather than Chinese, but that is only a guess based on where they were stationed..

It is marked... Sterling

It weighs about 18 ounces and appears to be entirely silver other than two bone o-rings in the handle that gives it the bamboo shape. 

There are no dents or dings, and appears to have been barely used, if at all.

Please let me know if you can tell me the origin and value.

Thanks!

Marie