ardroyboy

Peter, Stephen, Chris, Brian and Jean, thanks so much for your expertise and, above all, good humour! Laughing out loud was not an expectation before posting. Final question - should I have it 're-wrapped and, if so, is there a style and method that would be true to its military origins? Once again, any Melbourne or Australian referrals welcome. Charles

Dear Brian and Stephen. Based on my best measurement, without removing the tsuka, the cutting edge length is 64cm and the overall length 99cm. Your thoughts on this are welcome. If I wanted to have the sword and signature inspected I am wondering if any of you know of an Australian based expert who could assist? I am located in Melbourne. Thank you once again for your time and expertise. I have now attached a copy of the retention certificate that was purportedly issued to the British veteran. Not sure if this adds anything. Helmet as well. Charles

Thanks to you all for your insights on the signature. I don't feel at all qualified to answer Jeans question as to whether the signature is faked or not. If anybody can provide me with information on the indicia that would be attributable to a fake signature I will do my best to undertake an amateur assessment. In relation to length, Stephen can you please explain what you mean by WAK? Sorry! Here are some other photos. Not sure if this helps identify a fake. I would be very surprised if it were a fake but, as mentioned, I am but a novice in this field. Charles

Hi Jean. Thanks so much for your response. Are there any online resources which can further assist some research on this sword smith? Charles

I am new to Nihonto (and Japanese sword collecting) and would be delighted if anyone could assist me in identifying the signature on this tang. It is a bring back from the Burma theatre. Any other information on the katana would be very welcome for a novice. Thank you for your time!