Steven6

I looked the blade over thoroughly and there are no major scuffs or discolorations over the entire blade. There is this extremely small mark that I have attached a picture of. The mark is about the size of a mark that a ball point pen would leave if pressed down on a piece of paper. Also, in one of the above pictures there are two really small marks towards the top portion of the blade (viewable if you zoom in). I have attached a picture of the main mark on the blade. Another poster mentioned the word “Shoshin.” I was curious as to what this means. Thanks for help and opinions, Steven

Everyone, Appreciate the comments. When I mentioned reattaching it to its original home, I was referring to having restoration work done on the ‘scabbard’ and then having the blade remounted to the original ‘handle’ (sorry I don’t know the proper terms for these pieces). I have not yet been through all my father’s folders and different locations where he would store something like this, but I am hoping I can locate some type of certification. I highly doubt he would have purchased something like this without some type of form or certificate assuring its age/authenticity. I measured it (blade length is 12in) so I believe it’s a tanto and not Wakizashi. I have attached two more images of both sides of the blade. As far as I can tell the blade is free from any major marks or discoloration. I appreciate all the replies to my post. The process of getting this certified (if I can’t locate this in my father’s belongings) seems like a lot. I would be hesitant to ship this overseas as it is one of the only things I have left to remember my father by. If I can’t locate some form detailing authenticity, does anyone have someone who is trustworthy and that they have used before to get a sword certified? Thanks, Steven

Greetings, My name is Steven Sinclair. At an early age my dad inspired a love in me for Japanese art. I have since passed this onto my son as well. My father was a collector of this type of art and I have always admired his collection. Recently, after being in the hospital for several months, he passed away. In going through his things with my mother we discovered this Wakizashi. I do not consider myself an expert by any stretch of the imagination, but I believe this piece to be of some significance. My father was not the most organized so if this came with any type of origami it is most likely lost. I have reached out to several websites asking their opinion on its authenticity, but have not received any replies as of yet. If you have some free time could you please review the attached pictures and let me know your opinion on whether this piece is authentic or not? If you do believe it is authentic I would also like to know how to start the process of getting it certified through the NBTHK and if it is possible to do here in the states as opposed to sending it overseas? Would it also be possible for me to have the blade reattached to its original home as well as be restored in the process? Thanks for any help you can offer in this. Steven