the information here has been very helpful, thank you both.
I've read that the consensus is restoration is a bad thing. I have zero interest in selling it. I never did, but hearing that it isn't worth much to anyone but my family, I am more willing to try to get it looking better.
Using this website:http://www.realarmorofgod.com/Japanese-sword-parts.html :t he condition is this:
The Scabbard, or Saya is in three pieces. split down the center, and one side is split diagonally.
The Obi-Tori ( scabbard ring) is seemingly covered in rust.
The main blade seems to be in nearly perfect condition, still very sharp. it is however 80-90% covered in corrosion, rust i assume.
The scabbard sleeve, Habaki, is almost corrosion free, maybe some minor makrs. It does have some medium cracking on a few sides. Seems strong and stable otherwise.
The metal spacers, Seppa, (4, a large and small on either side of the guard), are almost completely corroded, loose, and maybe slightly bent or mishappen.
The Guard, Tsuba, has some kind of dirt or gunk on it. It is also loose, but seems otherwise ok.
The metal sleeve, Fuchi, has some of the same gunk, its a darker color, and maybe some scrapes? on it.
The bamboo pin, Mekugi, looks worn out. slides in and out easily. I dont know what it should feel or look like, so i dont know how bad it is.
