dwmc

Yes, it's true! I am afraid to buy a sword tassel unless it shows considerable wear and has a bit of damage here or there indicating it is from WWll era. Especially when considering a higher priced field grade tassel let alone a general's tassel. What a racket, many of these reproduction tassels are getting so good it's terrifying to spend big money only to find it is a well-made reproduction. As collectors, I suspect most of us want the nicest looking item we can find, there it is, nicely folded pristine in a box, have to have it only to discover its a well-made reproduction. They get your money, then sellers claim...not know fake, not know fake, your fault you judge. John (psnshogun) has made much appreciated attempt to help with how to properly identify fake from real but I still find it difficult to confidently tell the difference in many cases. Particularly in photos as it is impossible to have the tassel in hand. John has mentioned he is preparing a guideline as how to identify real from reproduction. Hopefully, he will share it soon.., Dave

As of August 2025 plan to pay 15% tariff on items purchased from Japan. Just purchased and small item at a bit over $300 US and paid $47 Tariff fee......

Is it possible the stamped smith names other than the kanji Mei could possibly a photo added by mistake? I've personally seen this happen on several occasions and when inquiring to the seller they have admitted the erroneous photo was added by mistake. The Mei on the Komonjo workshop ad is identical to my own Daisaku Daimei Amahide sword forged by Ido Hidetoshi. Definitely not gimei.

Bruce, this is what was on the back. 

Thanks much guys!!!

I think I can make out Tetsu, Tsukuru and Saku? Thanks in advance.... Dave

Thought I would add these combat covers mainly just for the heck of it with a couple of "Been There" examples, and also a late war pig skin cover. The upper and lower covers are obviously well used with the upper showing wear as to one can only imagine to where it was worn during the war. The lower cover is in the worst condition, however it apparently did its job as the saya is in overall great condition. It is the original to the sword cover as it was sewn on the saya when it came into my possession yet it became so fragile I eventually removed it. The middle sword very nice Shinto era sword with what appears to be a very supple pig skin cover and almost a tin toy type buckle. It shows practically no wear and almost has to be a late war lack of traditional material situation.

Your sword appears to be a 1940's Tenshozan workshop stainless steel blade. Mei reads Tenshozen Tanrenjo saku !

Well gee whiz fish...

These are the additional photos I mentioned previously. I believe this sword to be an Amahide dai saku / dai mei by Ido Hidetoshi. I believe it to be Gendaito.

Will post better photos later. 

I have two, one which my father brought home after WWll, one which I purchased at an estate sale. Both are Dai-saku and Dai-mei, one by Kanemune the other by Hidetoshi. Will post photos of the Hidetoshi when I get a chance, brother is in possession of Kanemune (Amahide.) Dave M

Sword has definitely been knocked around a bit! However, many collectors like swords which have a "been there" appearance. Could be an older blade from look of nakago, lack of Yasuri me and punched mekugi ana. Worn Ha and Muni machi.

This sword appears to be what you were referring to. Ebay # 226633772531

Agree with Hamfish, too much wrong with this sword to be authentic wwll Japanese...

Even as insignificant as it may be, these cut as opposed to deteriorated tassel ends continue to show up. It could lead one to believe that there was definite reason for it...examples of both below.

And another variation; :鍔 Tsuba Dragon Armor Sengoku Warlord Diagram Musha Battle Map Inscription Sword Japan Sword Imitation Sword Japan Sword Orthotics Armor Age Kurade■From Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture J4 24-3945 /【Buyee】 Buyee - Japanese Proxy Service | Buy from Japan!

Tsuba Dragon Armor Sengoku Warlord Diagram Musha Battle Diagram Named Sword Japanese Sword Sword Imitation Sword Sword Tsuba Japanese Sword Equipment Weaponry Period Storehouse ■ From Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture J4 24-3944 /【Buyee】 Buyee - Japanese Proxy Service | Buy from Japan! Yep, and on it goes...

Ok great, I see I'm just the latest to fall for the ruse. Hard to believe the prices the thieves are asking, but then again, what's new with fraudsters, only paid $27 US, yet still........

Excellent information Dale...Thanks much!

Thanks Justyn and Dale. Agree, things just didn't seem right with the tsuba...

Additional photos

Recently purchased this Tsuba from Japanese dealer. I'm puzzled with the kanji, I believe it is Goto Chengjo with possibly a Hanayoshi kanji symbol (kao). Was there a Goto smith Chengjo or is this a Chinese copy ??? Thanks in advance, Dave M.

Left handed gunto??? Chuso on opposite side? Am I seeing this correctly? Dave M.