Help with sword ..

[Butch]

I was wondering if any one could help me with this sword and the translation on the tang...and regarding the smith who made it ?

Many thanks Gareth

 

[Ray Singer]

Looks like Sukehiro saku (Tomita) dated 1943

[Butch]

Many thanks Ray his he a recorded smith ?,.

[Ray Singer]

[Butch]

Thanks Ray didn’t think he was regarded that high !!!

Gareth 

[Ray Singer]

Yes, Tomita Sukehiro was an absolutely excellent gendai smith. 

 

[Ray Singer]

Full inscription:

祐弘作 - Sukehiro saku

皇紀二千六百三年仲冬 - Koki ni sen roppyaku san nen chūtō - 2,603rd year of the founding of the empire, in mid winter - 1943

[Brian]

1 hour ago, Butch said:

Thanks Ray didn’t think he was regarded that high !!!

Gareth 

It's not a value. It is a comparative descriptive value given to Gendai smiths, and allows you to compare their ratings. 1M Yen isn't all that high....I guess it would be classed as a very good smith. Not excellent or top.
Don't take it literally. But it does mean he made good swords, traditionally.

[Butch]

Thank you Brian for your comment ..

Gareth 

[Ray Singer]

Here are photos of a Sukehiro I handled recently. 

[Butch]

Some pics of mine Ray pi

[Butch]

Here it Is with my other Field Rank Sword 

[Butch]

Thank you for everyone’s comments ..

Here is some more information on the sword and it’s maker..

Gareth