Help Identifying Date Of Inherited Sword

[ArenaMan]

I recently inherited a Japanese sword from my grandfather who was given this sword by a Japanese translator he befriended when my grandfather was stationed in Japan following WWII. Our family has always been interested in the age of the sword and learning more about it. I have done a little research and have attached two photos. One side appears to contain what I understand to be the date, as I am able to make some numbers. I have included a photo of the other side, in case the age would make the non-date side of interest. I am primarily interested in the year it was made. I appreciate any help anyone is willing to provide.

 

 

[MauroP]

The date looks like  昭和十五年六月 - June 1940

[Ken-Hawaii]

Welcome to the forum, ArenaMan. Please sign all your posts with at least your first name, per Brian's rules, so we know how to address you.

[Jean]

Did it for John

[Peter Bleed]

John,

This sword is signed Seki ju Kanenori saku, and it has a Seki stamp. This smith made arsenal swords - ie. "Showato", but a 1940 date is pretty early so there may be some collector interest. I bet the forum would like to see a picture of the sword's fittings.

Peter

[ArenaMan]

Apologies for omitting my name. Thank you for the reminder and updating my post.

 

Peter and Mauro - Thank you both very much for the information! Your expertise is very helpful and greatly appreciated.

 

I'm happy to share a few more photographs

 

John

 

[Surfson]

It appears to be in good condition.  John, if you are curious, it is a machine made blade and worth between $800-1500 or so.  

[DRDave]

I'm happy to share a few more photographs

 

 

 

The blade...the blade.

[ArenaMan]

Robert - Thank you for the comment regarding value. I plan to keep it in the family, but that is good information to know. 

 

Dave - Happy to share. Here you go. I struggled with lighting and reflections.

 

Thanks!

 

John

[PNSSHOGUN]

Hi John, very nice example of a war time officers sword and piece of family history you have there. Keep the blade clean with tissues and a light coating of gun oil and it will survive in great condition for many generations. I'd also advise writing out the history of the blade and keeping that with the sword.

[Surfson]

The blade appears to be in good condition, like the mounts.  Be sure not to touch the blade with your fingers.  There is a sword etiquette demonstration by Grey Doffin that you might find useful.  

[ArenaMan]

Great information and video. Thank you everyone!