This Katana was dug up in the garden by my Grandfather in 1984. My Grandmother transliterated the inscription and sent it to the British Museum, who responded with the following (+ attached) response.
"
Your excellent transliteration of the inscription on the sword reads 'Showa ju shichi nen roku gatsu'
( June in the 17th year of the Showa ero - or 1942 ) and 'Seki-ju Kanetomo saku' ( made by Kanetomo in the village Seki ).
This smith is recorded by Dr Homma as having been appointed a special maker for the army at the age of 28 in 1943.
I would expect it to be hand forged in the traditional manner.
Yours sincerely,
Victor Harris
Research Assistant
"
I would like to know more about the sword, confirm it's type/model, and to know more about the swordsmith.
I believe the sword is the Type 98 here -- http://ohmura-study.net/934.html
Many thanks in advance!
