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So Alex, From my entire post, once again someone picks out one sentence and comments on it (and then places what they consider a funny emoji about their reply). What are your thoughts about the rest of my post? Any comments on that?

Darcy would be my point of reference for this opinion. AI also agrees Yes, NBTHK Juyo is a competition, in the sense that a blade's passing is not solely based on meeting a set of absolute criteria but also on how it compares to other swords submitted in the same session. While the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (NBTHK) evaluates swords based on quality and condition, the Juyo Token (Important Sword) designation involves a competitive element where only a limited number of blades can pass each year, meaning a superior sword might be passed over for a better example from the same smith or school. Understanding the "Competition" Aspect of Juyo Shinsa: Relative Quality: Even if a sword meets the minimum requirements for Juyo, it might not pass if other swords in the same submission are considered superior. Limited Passes: The NBTHK only awards Juyo status to a specific number of swords annually, making it a competitive process where blades vie for a limited number of slots. Historical Context and Comparison: Judges consider the historical context and how a blade compares to other examples by the same smith or school, potentially leading to changes in opinion over time. Polish Matters: The condition of the sword's polish is also a factor in the evaluation process, and it must meet the NBTHK's standards. Voluntary Entry: Submitting a sword for Juyo shinsa is voluntary, and by entering, you agree to the NBTHK's rules and evaluation criteria.

Must be reassuring.

Hello, I need to translate this mei on my Japanese sword.

Also note the Nagoya inspection mark. @Spartancrest

I need another help with translating this mei it is on a ceremonial katana

Here is part of why people say Juyo is a competition. Written by the late Darcy Brockbank who was a respected scholar of Nihonto. It’s a web archive article, so you’ll have to scroll down a bit. I have learned a lot from Darcy’s contributions and am inclined agree with his view https://web.archive.org/web/20201022000337/https://blog.yuhindo.com/hozon-is-a-test-juyo-is-a-competition/ Please understand that this is just one side of the argument here. I don’t presume to know what Jacques believes. Lovely sword by the way! -Sam

Hey pin yin, Like jawob stated- “Seems the best way to come ahead is arm yourself with a lot of knowledge, time and patience. Very difficult hobby.” But then again I have seen over the years on various threads on this forum that even knowledgeable collectors are sometimes ripped off. Remember, there are no guarantees (that I have seen) given along with any tsuba purchase. Even the NBTHK papers that a collector will pay a lot extra for that may come with a tsuba could be incorrect or misleading in their description of the tsuba. Eventually, if you wish to collect tsuba you are going to have to make a purchase. I found that a good thing to do is find a highly experienced member on this forum where you can send pictures of the tsuba that you want to purchase and get their opinion of the tsuba before you purchase it. But it is only their opinion and again there is no guarantee that they are 100% correct. Perhaps finding what you consider a reputable dealer is good. But that will take some purchases of tsuba and time to figure that out (unless you can make contact with some very experienced members who maybe can direct you to a reputable dealer that sells tsuba in you price range – whatever that price range is). I have found that there are (what I consider to be) reputable sellers on Ebay. But they will not consistently post tsuba on Ebay, it varies (of course) on what they purchase and then post on Ebay. So, it can take weeks before an Ebay seller that you determine as reputable will post his tsuba for sale. Again, my personal saying is if I don't spend a lot I can't get ripped off for a lot! Anyway, these are just my thoughts. Good luck and have fun with the hobby!

Interesting point – I’ve seen different opinions on this, which makes me curious. Would you mind sharing why you see it differently? I think understanding both perspectives could really help put the whole Jūyō process into context.

Have you ever attended a Shinsa session? No, so don't talk about what you don't know.

I wouldn't expect anything less.

To everyone, I just realized it’s only been about two hours since I opened this thread, and I’m genuinely amazed at how much valuable information has already been shared. A big thank you to everyone who has taken the time to reply and contribute – it’s incredibly helpful and very much appreciated. I’m really looking forward to hearing more insights and learning from the expertise here. This community is fantastic.

I fully disagree Ok. I was thinking more of a difference in the quality of the work than a simple fashion and market story.

thanks for pointing that out – I can definitely see how a signed blade would hold more commercial value compared to a mumei attribution. In my case, the Tanobe sayagaki helps a bit, but of course it’s not the same as having a signature. Good to hear that the earlier registration number is seen positively – I wasn’t sure if that detail mattered much in the market. It’s really helpful to get your perspective on this when trying to place my piece in the current range. That’s a really good point about signed vs. mumei blades. I was wondering: in general, does a Tanobe sayagaki tend to add noticeable weight to the market value, or is it more about historical and documentary appeal? I’ve come across mixed opinions on how strongly collectors factor it in.

right side up: Maybe 則宗 Norimune?

Had a brief spell on ebay this morning. Reminded of what an horrible experience it is, sifting through junk and scams. There is good stuff, though a lot is well overpriced. Always left with the thought that sellers are fishing for idiots.

I need another help with translating this

Wartime sword that likely had a damaged tsuka (handle). Someone along the way crafted a new wooden handle, but kept the Army kabutogane (end cap).

Hi Jussi, thank you very much for sharing those numbers – they give a much clearer picture of how Shikkake and Norinaga blades appear across the Jūyō sessions. It’s very interesting to see how Norinaga pieces fit within the total Shikkake count. My own Norinaga received Jūyō papers in 2023, so this information really helps me understand where it stands in the broader context. I really appreciate all the work you’ve put into compiling and maintaining this database – it’s an invaluable resource for collectors like me.

Tough one. A signed blade is going to have a greater commercial value vs one thats mumei. Yours has quite an early registration number which doesn't do it any harm.

Check fees for antiques. 8% for older then 100 years probably.

I will try to write an actual reply when I have time but here are the Jūyō numbers from all 70 sessions. 36 Shikkake Norinaga blades (signed + attributed) 103 Shikkake blades (attributed)

thanks for explaining that – I never really thought of Shinsa as a kind of “competition” within a school, but it makes a lot of sense. It also explains why pass rates vary so much from year to year. And yes, I understand what you mean about affordability – I feel quite fortunate that mine passed Jūyō in 2023, especially given how strict the sessions have been lately. Your insights really help me understand Yamato blades and the NBTHK process better.

Hi Lewis, thank you so much for sharing that Aoi Japan reference – it’s an excellent comparison point. Looking at the details, that piece is a Jūyō Norinaga in shirasaya (no koshirae) and listed at about 4.7 million yen. I’ve made a small comparison table for clarity. This makes me think my piece would likely sit at about 1.5–2× higher in value (what do you think?), mainly because of the full mountings, fresh certification, and Tanobe attribution. Thanks again – this reference really helps put things into perspective for me.

Incredible work!! Wow. So glad i came here to ask about my sword. I get so much information, thats priceless!