Edward G

I have had this plus another Okimono for a few years. This is my favorite because of the subject matter, and consider myself lucky to have found this one. I do not have a translation of the signature and would request assistance on this any other thoughts or any opinions as to age and value. I am thinking it is Meji Period but I am not sure. Note the prominent mon on the back of the figure, and others scattered on his attire. The figure is quite heavy weighing in at about 1 lb 8 oz. see pictures attached. Edward G

Is it possible that the Arabic numbers on the nakago for these swords were added later by an armorer in service to indicate Military Regimental Markings? During this period of time it was common in European countries to add regimental markings on armaments such as bayonets, rifles, pistols etc. This practice continued through WW1 up until WW2 in many European countries such as England and Germany. Edward G.

Thank you Steve M, Yasaka Azuma, and Stephen for your comments. I appreciate the opinions. Hopefully I will be able to narrow it down sometime into the future by showing it in person to some knowledgeable folks at one of the Sword Shows when they start having them again. Thanks all Edward G

Hello all. I welcome any/all opinions on this new acquisition. I need help in trying to determine which KatsuMitsu is this one, and from what time period? I have attached many pictures. The sword is mounted in excellent condition early Shin Gunto type 94 mounts, in original matching condition. All seppas, tsuba, and even under the fuchi on the tsuka have matching numbers, appears to even have original Mekugi from WW 2. Obtained with 3 other Japanese Swords from a veterans estate, and it has never been on the market previously. This sword bears a two character signature KasuMitsu signed TachiMei. Currently the cutting edge measures about 27 ½ inches, with a current sori of between 5/8 to 3/4 inches. There are 4 or 5 Mekugi-Ana, it is a classic O’Suirage, at one time the cutting edge would probably have been estimated to be 31-32 inches. The thick tang and narrow sword indicates that it received few polishes over time. Currently the sword is out of polish now and it is hard to capture the hamon & hada. Any thoughts about this old soldier is appreciated. Edward G.

This has been a very interesting thread to read. I am the person who posted earlier in the translation request section and own the Kyu Gunto dress sword. Mine has a date and a signature as indicated below from the translation section. It is a new acquisition within the last few days. Shōjū Kanemasa 小銃兼正 明治廿三年三月 = March 1890 [1890-03] However, mine has no arsenal stamp of Kokura ( three cannon balls) as in Jim's sword above. The blade does have a sharpen cutting edge. On the nakago it has stamped Arabic numbers, of which has been a brief discussion above. I am curious as to the meaning for these numbers. Any other thoughts and opinions are very welcomed. So now I am wondering just how rare are the Murata Swords which bear his signature and are dated? After some minor clean up it appears to be in incredibly good condition. Any opinions as to value is also appreciated. Thank everyone all in advance Edward G.

Thank you Jean Collin, Thomas and Steve M. You all have been very helpful. I know this type sword is of an unusual configuration, and not at all common. Does anyone have any opinions as to a value for this type sword? I for one have never seen one with a hand made blade that is sharp signed and dated. Thanks Again Edward G. Thanks

Hello All: Today I acquired an unusual dress Kyu Gunto with a hand made blade signed and dated from the Meji Period.(along with 3 other Japanese swords). The group picture gives some perspective as to size of this dress Kyu-Gunto compared to a regular size Shin Gunto. It has a blade which is razor sharp and has a kissaki Moroha Shape in the parade sabre configuration. It has the early iron type scabbard and a straight handle with a peg. In any event it has two mekugi-ana holes, and one appears to obstruct some maker kanji. So opinions are welcomed. I have attached many pictures of both the signature side and date side as well along with other pictures of the sword and mounts. I attend a few sword shows and have a little experience however, I have not encountered this type configuration of a Japanese Sword previously, therefore all comments are welcomed concerning this odd bird. The signature might be Kane Masa , I know for sure it is a Meji Date. Anny thoughts on the makers name will be appreciated. Thanks In advance Edward G

Thanks Steve M & Stephen C. for your information !!! Edward G

Thanks to Steve M, Ken Goldstein, Stephen C, and Jean Pierre. I am attaching some additional photos and information, and welcome any comments. The Mei still looks to me to be KANE MASA as attached information shows. This sword was acquired from the son of a vet who told me it was stored in a trunk for the last 60 years and he did not know about it until recently, needed money and I gladly purchased it. Tang File Marks are Kiri...…….Almost completely gone on Mei side Sword Type Wakizashi Shinogi Zukuri Sori is 12mm Cutting Edge is 17 3/4 iunch Bosi is 25 mm Hamon is Large Gunome Mune is Hikushi Shinogi Ji is 8mm witdth Thickness of tang at Mune Machi is 5mm Width of blade at Mune is 28 mm Peg hole is NOT drilled Hada is Munji Noi & Nie are present My guess is one of the early KANE MASA listed, what do you think? Thanks to all Edward G

Good Morning to all.... New Acquisition.... Pease see attached as I translated to be Kane Masa. Cutting Edge is 17 1/2 inches the 1 oz rem oil bottle is for size comparison. The mounted sword is very petite. Any ideas as to which Kane Masa and time Period this Mino swordsmith may associate to? Thanks Edward G

Thank You Steve, George, Uwe, and Bugyotsuji your participation in the tang translation is very much appreciated. I would have never arrived at a conclusion by myself Thanks Again Edward G

Thank you George and Steve for your thoughts.I am posting a few additional photos for your consideration that may help Edward G

Good Evening to all.....Pictures are for an old Katana. Just acquired a few days ago. 28 inch cutting edge. Tang is signed and dated. I am stuck and need some help translating the makers name. However rust has obscured some characters especially on the date side. Attached are pictures. I think the signature goes something like this "Hizen Kuni Ju Osa fune XXXXXXXXXXXX Mitsu.. Cant seem to read the entire name near bottom. Date side may be Tempo Period, but, with the clump of rust not sure. Thanks Edward G.

Thank you againn for this information, I could not have found it on my own. I appreciate it very much. Edward G

Thank You John, Ian, Bazza, and Uwe for the comments...... Attached are additional photos...A puzzling inscription. Additional opinions would be helpful. Thanks Again Edward G