Valuation and variation?

[obiwanknabbe]

My question for my learned friends has to do with how certain variations of blades can reflect value. Specifically, in this case, nanban tetsu as a base material.

 

Lets say I have two comparable swords from the same smith who is rated 40 pts , 2.5 million yen. Swords are pretty much the same quality and in a great state of polish. Does the fact that one is inscribed foreign steel have any effect on the value?

 

Thanks

 

Kurt.

[cabowen]

That alone should have no real impact on value. Quality, condition, length, etc. are the major determinants.

[ROKUJURO]

Kurt,

 

at the respective manufacturiung period, the smith and likely also his customers might have considered the NAMBAN TETSU as superior and more valuable.

[Grey Doffin]

I would think that it makes little difference with top level smiths. Mid level or lower it will make an appreciable difference because it is a label that people can collect. This is why Mantetsu Gunto are worth more than other Gunto. Not necessarily a better blade but it has a label.

Grey

[cabowen]

I don't think the Mantetsu blades are a good comparison as these were actually made in quite a thought out manner based on modern understanding of metallurgy and steel processing. A more apt comparison might be the Yasuki or Gensui steel made blades. These, like the nanban tetsu swords, were simply made with a non-tamahagane steel, rather than a completely different process.

[Surfson]

Interesting question. I think that I would pay a little more (not much) for a Echizen Yasutsugu if it had that as part of the inscription, other things being equal. cheers, Bob