redryder

Is it your opinion that the last symbol is at least supposed to represent the Tokugawa Mon?

Pardon my inexperience and ignorance, but are you saying that Nagasone Kotestu is the maker of this Kogatana? What then is the meaning of "the 2nd generation, Okimasa?" Is the KEI the small symbol at the end? Is that a Tokugawa Mon? It has been suggested to me that the Wakizashi that this Kogatana came with might be a Tokugawa because of the design on the fuchi kashira, see photos. But, I was skeptical because the design is more of a vine rather than the traditional circle with the three hollyhock leaves that you usually see. (Is Nagasone sometimes spelled Nakasone?)

Could someone help with translating the inscription on this Kogatana?

Franco, does the koshirae give any insight as to the possible origin of the wikizashi? Here is a little bit better photo of the inscription on the kogatana. Any recommendations as to who might be able to translate?

Franco, Here are the photos you asked for. I also included a photo of the inscription on the Kogatana which shows a bit of the cross-hatching on the Kozuka. I just can't get my camera to take a decent pic of the Kozuka. I will try tomorrow to take one outside, maybe that will work better. I also took one of the smooth side of the Kogatana.

Here is a photo of the Tsuba

My apologies for not signing my previous posts, Newbie mistake! Just thought I'd add some personal history on this piece.The Kozuka and Kogatana were brought back by my Father in 1946 as part of a Wakazashi, see photo, that I have had dated between 1650 and 1750. He also brought back a Type 38 Arisaka rifle and two Type 30 bayonnets. I will try to get some better photos. I am having trouble getting my camera to work up close even though it has a macro setting. Les

Here is a better photo.

Can anyone give me any info on this Kozuka?