>"This item has special properties when looked at."
>There are several items that have this property, but do not
>seem to serve any function. Is there something I am missing
>about this?

Not all observation exp is from looking at mobs and room descriptions.

>Also, what is the difference between "has special properties
>in combat" (Tends to be a prog) and "has special properties
>when striking" (No obvious effect).

Some weapons do special things but only on a successful hit. Sometimes these special things are purely cosmetic, but still require a prog.