judorichard

Brian, I have taken some better pictures that show the nakago in more detail. The mei can clearly be seen as can the yasuri-me. The yasuri-me are yoko yasuri. There is not a step where they end so I believe the mei is original. Let me know what you think. To date I have been unable to take good pictures of the sword blade which is a shame because it has a very attractive yakiba which I would classify as notare-midare although at first glance it appears to be sugu-ha. The simple advice of "search the board" (translation: stop being lazy! ) was correct and I found a useful thread but I found it a bit too technical for me :? . I'll have to do some more reading and perhaps take a photography course. It will therefore be a while before I can post good pictures worthy of the sword. Richard MS.

Hi Brian, No, there is not a step. It is my poor photography. I will try to take better pictures this weekend. If you could recommend a good resource (website etc.) for help on photographing swords I would greatly appreciate it. My pictures really don't do this sword justice. I would like to post better pictures. Best regards, Richard.

Hi all, After some effort I have failed miserably at taking good pictures of both sides of the blade :lol: . Can anyone recommend a resource or book on how to take good photo's of a sword blade. Thanks, Richard MS.

Thanks for your replies George, Chris, Ryan and Ed. I will try to take better photos of the blade tonight and post them. Regarding sending the sword to Japan for polishing, thanks for the information. I will hold off for now and consider the options. I am interested in the silver mon. Can anyone recommend a book or resource for researching Japanese family/clan mon? Thanks, Richard MS.

Here is a picture of a silver mon on the kabuto-gane. If anyone knows which family/clan it is please let me know. (It looks like a Jasmine but I'm not sure). Richard MS

I have a sword that was purchased directly from a Marine vet. He captured it in the Philippines at the end of World War II. I believe it is a Yasukuni Shrine sword by Yasuyoshi. It was made in March 1942 (if I am reading the mei correctly). I am attaching some photo's. Unfortunately the pictures are not that good. I am considering sending it to Japan to have it polished. If anyone has any thoughts or comments please let me know. Thanks, Richard MS