WW2 army officers signed sword odd characters

[phil reid]

Hello chaps, what's your thoughts on the characters on the tang, look quite rough and made by another hand as compared to obverse side

[phil reid]

other side

[george trotter]

Hi Phil,

WWII Sowato blade.

2 character mei is TAKEHISA

6 character date is SHOWA JU HACHI NEN HARU = Spring, 18th year of Showa =1943

probably same guy signed/dated blade.

If there a smal W stamped on the tang somewhere it usually is a arsenal / workshop  stamp...not sure which.

 

Regards,

[phil reid]

Hi George, 

 Hope your keeping well.

 Thanks for your help, ill check for the W

Phil