What type of sword is this

[Otisman]

Sword was given to me by a friend. Told me an older friend of his gave it to him years back. Said he brought it home from the Korean War. Don’t know if that’s true or not. Any info appreciated. 

[NewB]

Hello and welcome, 

 

It appears to be a suriage , shobu-tsukuri authentic Japanese wakizashi from either the late muromachi or Shinto periods (I lean to Shinto but just as a first glance so to speak but could be later as the hole on the tang looks drilled rather than punched). Tough to say as the photos are not showing details. Please research 'how to preserve' it on the forum until you decide what you want to do with it. As a rule of thumb, the blade should be oiled (to prevent it from rusting further) and never be left on hard surface or touched by bare hands. I'm sure other members will give you more information on the fittings.

Just my 2 cents..

 

Cheers

 

J.

[Bruce Pennington]

Seems there were many Japanese swords brought back by troops from the Korean war.  Must have been left from the end of WWII.

 

Interesting ant engraved on the tsuba!  Can't see what it is on the other side.  How about some clear close-up shots?

[Otisman]

Here are some better pictures. I appreciate the information. 

[Bruce Pennington]

Wow.  Considering the eroded condition of the entire tsuba, could the ant have been added on at a later time?  The gold on the other side seems to be all remaining of a larger figure?

[PNSSHOGUN]

Probably the ant/spider is made from Shakudo.

[Utopianarian]

Looks like a cut down Naganata. That looks good what are you making tuna salad 🤗