bigdog5022

Wish to extend a belated 'Thank you' to SwordGuyJoe for taking the time to personally look at the sword first hand. It was a great education into something of which I know little. His findings: Koto - Late Muromachi Hamon - Ko Midare / Midare Hada - Masame ?? Yasurime - Kiri Mei -Gimei / partially removed. Most likely not that of the maker. Again, Thanks Joe for your time and effort. I will pursue options as you suggested. Thanks to all who assisted. Dave

Thanks Matt. Any features I should try to get better photos of besides signature? Any way to enhance the signature without doing something improper? I have heard to not disturb that part of the sword in any way - want to do what is correct. Alternately, is there a list where I can find someone local (Seattle, Wa.) for a better look? Thanks for all your help, Dave

Signature has more detail than this old cam will pick up plus rust seems to cover some. Not sure if you mean a better angle from side or shot of top of blade itself so here are a couple more. Thanks, Dave

couple more photos. Thanks, Dave

Thank you for the welcome. here are a few more pics, hopefully better. Need more, please ask. Thank you

Curious if anyone can narrow down approximate year, maker, what lettering translates to, value of this blade. I believe from a bit of research it is a Katana - 27 -5/8" from tip to cross guard. After that, I know little other than it has surface rust which I understand not to disturb and it still has an incredibly sharp edge. Attached are some photos. Thank you for any input.