This is my first post on this site. The site was recommended to me by a fellow collector, as a source of information regarding a sword I purchased (which should soon receive).
I posted photos of the tang of this sword (sorry but I am too novice to know all the Japanese nomenclature); and many questions arose due to the absence in its mei of a single character (kai), and also the style of its Imperial Crest. That discussion yielded results, which indicated that the Second Generation of this swordsmith was known to have used a Crest like the one on my sword; but only occasionally. Some sources also mention that this maker signed some swords without including a "kai", though he normally included a "kai".
All I seek is information to help me determine whether or not to keep the sword; seeing as I have a return privilege. It was not too expensive, and I like the sword's appearance.
If any of you possess the knowledge to determine whether or not that characteristics of this blade match its mei, I would greatly appreciate hearing from you.
I do not intend to sell the sword. My primary collecting interests lie in a completely different field. I am just buying a few of these swords because I think they are beautiful.
Thanks for any and all comments,
J Ambrose
