Scogg

I like the strong box theory, as my first thought was the little strongbox on a lot of Japanese Tansu (Dansu?). The 'rivets' on each corner definitely scream metalworking, like George said. Reminds me a lot of the metal trim on these cabinets. Interesting design, and while it reminds me most of a Tansu, no image I can find fits in a satisfying way... Cheers, -Sam

A properly and well fitted Japanese sword will require no such things. Craftsmen make the fittings to fit perfectly. In battle, you wouldn’t want things slipping or rattling around, so the fit is important. With time and changes in humidity and climate, wooden components can shrink or swell. When this occurs, sometimes the paper shims helps the fit. Also, when people piece together swords from non original parts, sometimes you can find these types of things. Probably some other scenarios in play too, that I have not considered. Hope that makes sense. -Sam

Any of the dealers from this website are trustworthy, and have good authentic items. https://swordsofjapan.com/ is Ray's website. He's got some awesome swords on there. If I had that much to spend right now, I'd snag that Tokubetsu Hozon papered Ko-Naminohira. I still highly recommend doing some studying first though. And Colin's advice of going to shows is great! There is one comming up in Chicago, and also Orlando. Another in San Fransisco early August. http://www.chicagoswordshow.com/ https://orlandoswordshow.com/ http://www.ncjsc.org/SF_token_kai.htm All the best, -Sam Edit: Incase you attend a show, this is really important info: https://swordsofjapan.com/nihonto-library/nbthk-etiquette/

Agreed with Colin and Brian. It's a real nihonto... But I would heavily consider doing some research before spending 2k on a sword. You could buy this sword, and it will likely inspire a lot of research and learning for you, but after some time and some learning, you will likely become disappointed with it's current condition. For that money you could find a much better "starter" sword, in my opinion. I'd recommend buying the books: Connoisseur's book of Japanese swords by Nagayama Also good for beginners: The Japanese Sword by Kanzan Sato (this was the first book that I started with) Also, take a look at the forums awesome FAQ section, it's a great place to start: https://www.militaria.co.za/nmb/faq/ Great link for spotting fakes: https://www.jssus.org/nkp/fake_japanese_swords.html All the best and good luck, Welcome to the forum! -Sam

The lines are really straight and long. I’m inclined to agree with Thomas, that it’s something with the saya Could it simply be from improper drawing of the blade from the saya on its side? Rather than drawing it along the mune? The koiguchi wouldn’t necessarily show wear if it’s just being drawn for show and tell. -Sam

I think it says: Noshu Kanetoshi Saku Looks like a small braided strap affixed to a brass loop that has three braided strings to three braided orbs. I have also never seen anything like it, and I imagine it will be tricky to identify How strange! -Sam

Some of those premier auction houses bring crazy premium prices that would surprise most in the respective collecting community. Bonhams and Sotheby's not only draw in nihonto collectors, but also the ultra wealthy art collectors, who will pay big money for what they want. Like Lonely Planet says. Cheers, -Sam

Much appreciated Ray! The owner will be excited to have it translated. All the best, -Sam

Another militaria show, and another sword. I was hoping for help translating this one. The owner has had it for a while and it’s in WW2 fittings. He sent me these photos. I hope they are legible enough. All the best, -Sam

Thanks guys! I find it really fascinating that they repurposed these sam browne belts, but it makes total sense. Mine seems nicely made; they must have recognized the quality at the time. What I initially thought was a let-down, ended up telling a really interesting story. Thank you everyone! Cheers, -Sam

Hi @JRB387 Vertical like the photo below, with tip (kissaki) north and tang (nakago) south. Best of luck, -Sam

That looks just like it, thank you! Bummer not Japanese, but at least I know what it is! Much appreciated, Cheers, -Sam

Dimensions: ~48 inches long (~122 cm) ~2.25 inches wide (~5.7 cm)

Today at a gun show I found this belt. Or I should say, it found me. A seller flagged me down and asked if I knew anything about it. After explaining that I don’t really, I took a gamble and bought it for $50. I cannot find it in my books, or anything that matches nicely. The photos below are with my hanger change and 95 - for scale and reference. I attempted translation of the characters and have a potential match to occupied Vietnam? I can’t figure it out, what do y’all think? Japanese? Repro/genuine? What did I buy? Cheers, -Sam

My copy arrived today also, and I’ve already begun reading it. I’ve been waiting and wanting a book like this for a long time! I’m only through the Senjuin chapter, but so far it is refreshingly on my level of understanding. It’s really well written and spells out some of the things my other books assume I already know; or aren’t advanced enough to broach. Very happy to have picked this one up! Looking forward to the bonus chapter about identifying sai-ha. Highly recommended, -Sam

Wow, that sounds like a really worthwhile, and helpful project. I haven't had the opportunity to read your first article yet, but just scrolling through and seeing the photography has me very excited! Thank you so much for putting this together; and please extend our thanks to Ted and Markus if the opportunity arrises. Cheers, -Sam

I think that's meant to be the "tie" for the sword bag Although, I've seen those "ties" added to swords as psuedo tassels before. Cheers, -Sam

Thank you for reviving this old thread! These 95s with hamon are nice looking Would love a link, or the serial number + stamps if that information is available. Cheers, -Sam

My brain says: OWARI My heart says: AKASAKA My gut says: I am just guessing Whatever it may be, I like it. -Sam

This item is now SOLD So I'm not moderating myself in the rare event I sell an item here - I'll request that @Brian please archive or delete the listing Donation to the forum incoming. Cheers, -Sam

For what it's worth, I am now able to log into NMB on my work computer after about 72 hours of "DNS ERRORS". I didn't do anything special, it just started working again. Like others have said; local ISP issues makes the most sense to me. Cheers, -Sam

On hold.

@lorn9800, Your sword is a genuine Japanese sword. NOT a copy, fake, or repro. The paperwork that you have is misleading; maybe incorrectly and/or poorly translated. (or maybe even for a different item?) The signature may or may not be genuine, but the sword absolutely is! Take good care of it. Cheers, -Sam

Photo of how the saya fits