Tai

Kawabe Gihachirō Fujiwara Masahiro This is the signature he used in his early days before he changed it a number of times to Masahide

That is an incredible likeness Regards Tai A

Apologies, I have re-posted the photos the rightway up I believe! How can I get a real NIHONTO expert to verify this signature before sending it all the way to Japan? Regards Tai Alvis

If i was worried about the condition of my sword I am no longer after looking at kunitaro's post Before Polishing After Polishing

I have read that Suishinshi Masahide only started to stamp his swords later and not all of them have the stamp.

Yes I will, I believe in the correct handling before anything!

These are the best Photos I can manage to get

just taking more pics now

Ye I thought thats what you meant I think thats a grerat idea. I just dont know where to go to have that done!

I dont know where the damage has come from it was certainly before it was in my family's possession, we have had it wraped up in a blanket for 60/70 years not knowing what it was. The marks look like stains not pitting and I am sure they will polish out I just dont know where to get it done?

Is Shirasaya retying the grip, replacing the old with new silk? Can this be done in the UK with a light polish/clean? If so how much would that cost?

How do I put it through shinsa I'm guessing this is authentication?

Ok thank you who is the best agent to send it to Japan from England? And how much could it cost? I have only just discovered it could be a Masahide and obviously I am very excited!

I am looking for help with this sword, I have a completely original and fully complete with all original fittings Suishinshi katana By Suishinshi Masahide, dated 1770’s With Gold and Amazing Dragon Motif on the fittings. I have not yet had it certified but will consider doing so. I would also like to have it refurbished, polished and cleaned but have not yet done so. I really want to have it lightly polished and cleaned in the UK as cheaply and quickly as possible then consider sending it to Japan for a full refurb and certification. There is some staining on the blade but it is not pitting and I am sure the marks will polish out! It has been in my family since the 1940’s and not ever been valued or placed on the market. Would one of your specialists please give me a current valuation best and worst case and help me decide what to do with it? Regards Tai 07903736548