Need help identifying this katana.

[ISmithers 0]

Hello, i just bought this katana from a collector. Now we inspected it and found a button with an anker on it, Japanese text saying "山本" on the tang when we took the handle off. It also has a serial number just above the guard. 120 cm long. We think the previous owner painted the metalwork.

Now I would like to know a bit more about the piece I bought (year, something about the owner or swordsmith, value) or maybe it's a replica I don't know.

[ROKUJURO 1,189]

ISmithers,

welcome to the board!

Please sign all posts with your first name plus an initial as is requested here. 

There must be a reason that you bought this item without knowing what it is. Was it very cheap? 

As far as I can judge from photos only, it looks like a phantasy sword, but it is not a KATANA and it is not Japanese. A bit of Chinese opera, made recently (between 1 and 10 years old). 

Value: What you paid for it, others may say USD 50.-- or 100.--.

Maker is a factory in Eastern Asia, I think.  

In case you have a love for authentic Japanese SAMURAI weapons, please have a look at the many pictures and informations here on NMB. You will soon see how the real thing looks!  

[Brian 6,176]

It is a very obvious Chinese fake. Sorry.
A basic research would have easily showed that. Always best to ask before buying. Try and get your money back. There is nothing good or real here.

[Ganko 289]

Unfortunately,it has no merit whatsoever. Hopefully you didn't pay very much for it or can return it. I hope this does not discourage you from having further interest in Japanese swords.