Derek

Wow, what a wonderful event! Huge cheer to Chris and Larry for a really great time. I met some amazing people, got to hold some great swords, and my katana papered! -Derek

Tsuruta-San has a very good reputation. Seems like an excellent price, but I can't comment on authenticity of signature. I'm sure one of the many experts can help you out with that. If I see something I like with a good price from a reliable source, I jump on it, but that's just me. -Derek

I fear that we may be using hindsight to judge the actions of others. Almost everyone on this site has a deep appreciation for Japanese culture and people. On the other hand, soldiers at the end of WW2 were mainly interested in enforcing the terms of surrender. We must remember that these men had given many years of their lives, been away from family, and lost friends in bloody battle that we could never imagine. Just a short time before these photos, these same men saw 60,000 casualties in Okinawa alone. Most saw Japanese swords as dangerous weapons and symbols of aggressiveness, not amazing art as we do now. -Derek

I just tried again, and it works fine now..... probably just error on my end Thx again for posting them. -Derek

The sound is fine on parts 2 thru 5, just the last half of part 1 is bad. Thx for posting them. -Derek

Seriously, eBay is the last place to go to try and learn about Nihonto.... I suggest you begin by reading everything on http://home.earthlink.net/~steinrl/nihonto.htm which is a great introduction, and FREE. Then search the forums on this site, which goes back years, very interesting, and FREE. Then, buy some good Nihonto books, which you can find a list here.... http://www.satcho.com/ You can buy 2 or 3 great books for the same price as Chinese junk sword on eBay. By then, you will know exactly what the difference between Chinese junk and a true Nihonto is. -Derek

My wife may not approve....

Very sad.... I really love that tsuba. I was always gonna ask you if you still had it, now I just hope you get it back. -Derek

I was thinking the same thing. But I'm sure he's busy, since his show is a week away. Derek

Not my sale, and not my era of interest, but I know it is for many here. Looks interesting, and in English. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Oshigata-Book-J ... 19c950f9e7 -Derek

http://www.nihontomessageboard.com/nmb/ ... =16&t=9610 -Derek

Ouch, I hope that wasn't the Hayashi tsuba that you shared a picture of.... it was amazing. -Derek

One week from today. :D -Derek

Bribe? I was merely contemplating a nice conversation over a drink or two with a supervisor. And I believe Curran stated he already had Tokubetsu Kicho, so assuming he was submitting for Tokubetsu Hozon which would probably be worth it.... Seeing Curran's previous contributions, I'm sure he is quite capable of determining what fittings are worthy of preservation. -Derek

Why do I get the sad feeling that 10000 yen in the right pocket would suddenly resolve the problem? -Derek

Very nice house, btw. -Derek

I believe they are listed by the guys at Owazamono.com, who have a good reputation. I have noticed their website has been down this week though..... -Derek

Curran, sorry to hear about this mess. I hate to see anyone have to go through it, especially with items they care so much about. I really hope it gets resolved quickly. I understand the issue with swords, but a hold up over fittings seems uncalled for. -Derek

Mr Sinclaire, I got quite a chuckle when I read your statements that, "many collectors followed their nationalistic tendencies when collecting," and "Americans, reflecting the wide range of their immigrant population, were happy with everything." I suggest this applies to more than Nihonto. :lol: -Derek

Well said, Grey. Derek

Sigh.... digital image will never replace an oshigata. Where is Clive Sinclaire when we need him! Anyone have a private jet to bring him to the show? Derek

Do you know if anyone will be doing oshigata there? (Classes, demonstrations, or other?) Thx Derek

Less than 2 weeks to go. I plan on taking some photos while there, and posting them after. I'm submitting a katana as well. Derek

I think this is going nowhere. You are asking for free advice from people based on photos. If you are serious about finding the ID and potential value of a nihonto, shinsa is definately the way to go. Worst case, you are out $100, but will have a definate answer on identity. If you get an answer you don't like, you can try another organization later. Derek

Please continue, as I am very much enjoying your story. Derek