Help with Older Tanto

[Geoff Ward]

Hello All,I may have a chance to purchase this older Tanto. Sorry for the hurried photos I only had a few minutes.The piece was in well handled shirasaya with a solid silver habaki There is a mei but it is very difficult to see I tried a little cornstarch to help but time was limited!! Any help or comments welcome! Regards,Geoff

[Geoff Ward]

One more

[ghp95134]

Looks like

菊御作
Kiku Go-saku
Chrysanthemum Imperial-made

... but I thought those swords bore only a 5-petaled Mum, not an actual signature.

Let's wait for the pros to comment.


--Guy

[Geoff Ward]

Thank you Guy,The blade is 14 1/8" from tip of nakago to tip of kissaki and 1 3/8" at its widest point with a very solid feel.

[BOB COLEMAN]

The mei of Emperor Gotoba who was reigning in the Late Kamakura period. The mei appears to be poorly cut and likely gimei. It still appears to be a nice old tanto.

[Geoff Ward]

Thank you very much Bob! I shall consider buying the blade not the "Story" Regards,Geoff