Japanese Sword Bring Back Opinions

[Craig H]

Well I dont know anything about this sword other than when/where it came from. I assume its a "military" sword as my father in law brought it back from Okinawa after taking it from the battle field after the invasion. He also brought back a bayonet and flag . I love it for obvious reasons , but am wondering if any Forum members can tell me more reguarding the approximate age and value or any other info . It looks like theres a fitting missing from the top of the scabbard . Its almost impossible to photograph the blade , but its in real nice shape . Didnt see any markings on the tang. Thanks .

[Craig H]

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[Bob Coleman]

You have a true samurai sword that was converted for military use. At one time, it had a leather field cover over the old laquer scabbard. Value can only be accurately determined by a hands on examination. A picture of the tang will indicate whether this is an intact unsigned blade or a blade that has been shortened.

[Bob Coleman]

For some reason, your last pictures did not load when I saw the thread. The tang is intact. From the pictures, the blade is likely contemporary to the mounts, which would be mid 19th century. Sorry for any confusion. Unsigned katana such as yours were usually part of an order of multiple blades placed by a Daimyo to arm his samurai.

[drdata]

Any significance to the menuki? Almost look like latch-ditch wire or something. Satsuma perhaps?

Regards