Hello my name is J Karner. I've been asked to evaluate a sword held by a collector. He has no intention of selling it. I'm doing it strictly because it is an opportunity to study, there is no money involved. Initially I was simply going to give him my assessment, but now I'm thinking I should check myself independantly. My question concerns the mei, I've translated it but find no oshigata to match, plus there is the issue of the date. I'm asking that anyone that responds take a little time to evaluate the mei and date in combination before posting. In the event you have access to oshigata to support I would appreciate a heads up to locate it myself. I have oshigata that does not match. My photos were to big to post so I hosted them at our website.
http://www.crescentmoonantiquesandsalva ... ductID=384
http://www.crescentmoonantiquesandsalva ... ductID=384
As side, the katana is civilian mount. Anyone interested is welcome to request additional photos and or enter into side discussions concerning the sword, email crescentmoon@ntd.net However, I would ask that posts concerning the mei be polite, as I am afraid I may present them to the owner as well. He knows civil war, european ww2 quite well but with regards to the Japanese Sword he knows very little. Thank you and best regards to those I know. J Karner