slavia631 Posted November 9, 2011 Report Posted November 9, 2011 Hi all, It's been quite a long time since my last post. Life has a funny way of distracting you from the important things in life. :D I have a Gendaito, and need some help with the mei. It has a Seki stamp. I was able to translate the date, which is March 1945 (correct me if I am wrong). But the signature is eluding me. I can't seem to identify either character. Perhaps it is my novice eyes, or the smith's style of engraving, or both... Anyway, here is the mei: Any help is very greatly appreciated! AG Quote
slavia631 Posted November 9, 2011 Author Report Posted November 9, 2011 Thanks! Any information on this smith? It looks like there were several Seki Showa smiths with that name... Any way to identify this particular one? Is it valuable? Here are some detail shots of the sword. Any information or thoughts are greatly appreciated! Quote
cabowen Posted November 9, 2011 Report Posted November 9, 2011 Normally a Seki stamp indicates the blade is not a gendaito, or traditionally made blade. I see nothing in the photos to indicate otherwise as well, though in truth the photos aren't clear enough to make a definitive determination. I would say odds are this is not a gendaito...If you can take some clearer photos of the hamon, it might be possible to make a more educated call.... Quote
slavia631 Posted November 9, 2011 Author Report Posted November 9, 2011 The entire blade is in the condition seen, and the above photos are the best I could do to show the hamon. I will try for better images. So, when you say it is likely not traditionally made, what does that mean exactly? It is handmade, but of poor quality and oil-quenched? Would you think that it is folded and/or tamahagane? Quote
cabowen Posted November 9, 2011 Report Posted November 9, 2011 It is most likely not made with tamahagane and oil, rather than water, quenched.... Quote
slavia631 Posted November 10, 2011 Author Report Posted November 10, 2011 Thanks for all the help. Is it possible to tell me an approximate valuation of this sword? I am seeing similar swords in similar mounts/condition sell on ebay between $400 and $700. Am I in the ballpark? Also, my research combined with the help here has led me to find that this is a Type 3 (Late 1944) pattern Army officer's sword. Am I correct? I know this is not Nihonto. But I would think many of you have seen one or two Showato in your day and appreciate the help. :D Quote
cabowen Posted November 10, 2011 Report Posted November 10, 2011 I would think you are indeed in the ballpark.... Quote
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