Rough Estimate and care instructions

[hikingnut67]

Yesterday, my mother gave me a sword that my grandfather acquired during WWII. The accompanying documentation dated 10-14-45, is an order stating my grandfather had permission to retain captured Japanese equipment listed as carbine/cavalry saber/sword.

 

From my research so far, it appears to be a Kyu-gunto. Can someone give me a rough estimate as to its worth and provide me with some proper care instructions? I can (and will) post some pics when I get a few moments to do so.

 

Thanks!

[Grey Doffin]

Hello,

You'll find a care and etiquette brochure on the NBTHK American Branch website

http://www.nbthk-ab.org/Etiquette.htm

I think we should have pictures before guessing about value.

Grey

[SwordGuyJoe]

Agreed - Without photos, no one could give you an accurate estimate.

[hikingnut67]

Thanks for your assistance. Attached are pics.

[hikingnut67]

Here are three more....

[Stephen]

Hey Nut

 

sorry you have not used your real name LOL

 

looks like so for Kiyomitsu...i hope your not removing rust to get to the mei.

we need more pix of the full nakago and kissaki. not so close please

[hikingnut67]

No, I have not removed any rust. Here is a "pulled back" pic of the (nakago?). Sorry, I'm not very familiar with sword terminology.

 

Thanks!

 

Phil

[Stephen]

Phil

 

thanks for useing your name. I think you have a old Koto(pre 1600) blade there, pix of the sugata thats the full blade without anything on it and a few of the hamon (temper line) and Kissaki...thats the tip

any bigger chips in the ha cutting edge? how long is it from tip to notch where the brass collar (habaki) fits, looks like a great hand me down.

[pcfarrar]

Judging from the nakagojiri its Kaga Kiyomitsu. Possibly muromachi period. Looks like a nice blade.

[Grey Doffin]

Phil,

Make sure there is a mekugi (bamboo pin) through the hole in the handle. Without the mekugi the blade can slide down inside the scabbard and shatter its point.

Grey

[hikingnut67]

Here are some additional pics of the blade. I forgot to measure it, but it's roughly 3' long.

 

On another note, is there a trick to getting the whole thing back together? I can't seem to get the top tab (that a small screw goes into) to fit under the ring while at the same time getting the bottom portion (it's the curved piece that would protect your fingers) to lock into the back part of the handle. I'm sorry, I'm not familiar with sword terminology so I hope that makes sense.

 

Phil

[loiner1965]

same mei as mine.....kiyomitsu