RanDogan Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 Hello, I have received a katana that was brought back from overseas during WWII. can someone assist with translating the Japanese kanji on the tang? One side is more clear but the opposite side is more rusty and difficult to make out. i have taken several pictures - hoping someone can figure it out. Thanks in advance - any help or guidance is greatly appreciated! Quote
Ray Singer Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 Bishu Osafune Sukesada saku Eiroku san nen hachi gatsu hi (a day in the 8th month of Eiroku 3 - 1560) - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eiroku 3 Quote
RanDogan Posted October 25, 2021 Author Report Posted October 25, 2021 1560. what do you think this blade is worth? is it worth repairing/restoring? Quote
Ray Singer Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 It is not clear from the photos what the condition/quality of the blade is. Also, it would be helpful to see the entire nakago (tang) down to the end in a single photo. Quote
RanDogan Posted October 25, 2021 Author Report Posted October 25, 2021 Sure, here you go. the sword has seen some action - there are visible nicks in the blade on front and back - no visible hamon. Quote
Ray Singer Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 Nakago seems right for late Muromachi Bizen. Seems plausible the signature is authentic. I would suggest showing to a professional togishi (polisher) for an assessment. You could start by having a madoake (window polish) done. 2 1 Quote
RanDogan Posted October 25, 2021 Author Report Posted October 25, 2021 Do you have an idea of range of value on a blade like this? i am not interested in selling, but it would be nice to know. Also, do you have any recommendations on a reputable togishi to use? Quote
Ray Singer Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 Examples of other Sukesada katana which have sold. https://www.aoijapan.net/?s=sukesada+katana&x=0&y=0 For a madoake, I would suggest speaking with Ted Tenold (legacyswords.com). 1 Quote
Brian Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 Ray gave you great advice (As always) Also read the FAQ above the forum. Lots of good info about what to do, should you have polished etc etc. Quote
Lareon Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 also please Don't touch the metal with your bare hands, you will damage it. wipe off any fingerprints you may have left on it and as Brian said, read the FAQ on caring for it as a starter. Quote
DTM72 Posted October 25, 2021 Report Posted October 25, 2021 @RanDogan. I am in the Charleston area. I would be happy to meet with you and help you with information on your sword and where to send for polish stateside, and in Japan. I could help identify any fatal flaws that would render it not worthy of restoration. Dan 1 1 Quote
RanDogan Posted May 1, 2024 Author Report Posted May 1, 2024 Dan, I wanted you to know I used Moses Becerra at NihontoAntiques to polish my sword- 2.5 years later he has returned it and did an incredible job. 3 Quote
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