Samurai Sword Markings

**JerryB52** · 07-29-2016, 06:54 PM

Hey guys, is anyone fluent enough to help me identify some markings on this sword? I am not sure if it is ww2 or later.

**Gwar** · 07-29-2016, 07:32 PM

Can you be patient enough not to post two identical threads... Not a dial up service...... Did the "Samurai" add this to their swords ?? Sit tight and relax.........

**ghp95134** · 07-29-2016, 09:39 PM

兼定
Kanetada

The Shō {昭} within the cherry blossom stamp indicates it was made in 1930s-1940s.

--Guy

**BOB COLEMAN** · 07-30-2016, 12:27 AM

Judging by the mounts, this factory made blade is likely circa 1941-43. The wear of a sword by the Japanese Military ended in 1845.

**JerryB52** · 07-30-2016, 03:33 AM

Hi and sorry for the duplicate post. My apologies. My computer is on the brink of a meltdown so I must have made a mistake. What is the best resource for Japanese sword markings? I have never owned one but am now in a position to grow my collection. Thank you so much for the help!

**BOB COLEMAN** · 07-30-2016, 04:19 AM

Are you interested in WW2 military blades or antique blades?

**Stu W** · 07-30-2016, 06:41 PM

Have a look at this link and then the site in general.

JAPANESE SHOWA ERA SWORDS

Regards,
Stu

**ghp95134** · 07-31-2016, 07:05 AM

by BOB COLEMAN

Judging by the mounts, this factory made blade is likely circa 1941-43. The wear of a sword by the Japanese Military ended in 1845.

Bob meant 1945. I also have "fat finger syndrome." (^___^)

--Guy

**JerryB52** · 07-31-2016, 11:26 AM

Hey guys, thank you so much for the links and opinions. I am interested in mainly Japanese ww2 blades. I will post some of my collection in the upcoming week. I am mainly interedted in German helmets, rifles, Luger's and Japanese swords. I sold off a lot of my collection to buy a Luger a year ago but am now in a position to buy some new items. I picked up this sword for $600 and figured it was a fair price.

**Stu W** · 07-31-2016, 07:31 PM

If that was 600 USD then yes you got it at a fair price. Perhaps even a good price depending upon the fit of the parts and condition of the blade edge. I'm not suggesting that there is anything wrong with them just that I can't tell tightness of fit and condition of edge without more info. The weather cover is a nice bonus to find on your iconic IJA Officer sword in a Type 98 mount.

Regards,
Stu