Phillip Baker

Thanks Everyone, I decided to pass on this one, I never received any further info (photos, etc) from the seller, so I move on! lol I wasn't about to pay the asking price, I was going to offer them $100 +- depending on the response I got here, and the other info I requested from the seller. I figured if I could get it cheap, it would be more a study/project piece that I could research and practice my (non-existent) polishing skills on!? lol I'll continue reading and researching this beautiful art form.. someday I'll have my "holy grail" Nihonto, and I'll be proud that I started my collection with something REAL and worth having! So, for now, I'm off in search of knowledge. Again, Thank You All, Phil B. EDIT: Nagamaki, WOW. . . I just looked at the second link you posted ref. this sword, I guess they forgot to add that information to the eBay listing.. It's no wonder I never received the additional info and photos I requested! lol Thank You Sir.

Hello, This is my fist post here and I didn't see an Introduction board so, Hello Everyone! I'm new to collecting and thought I would seek advice from people who I think, are capable of helping!? This will possibly be the first piece in my starting collection, kind of a starter "project." I've been reading any and all information I can on Real Japanese Swords, I've been looking on eBay (I know about the FAKE antiques, etc) and I've found one that piqued my interest. I contacted the seller and requested additional photos to help me judge the condition and authenticity of the Katana, I kind of have an idea of what to look for, but not really.. that's where you come in! I'm not sure about posting links and pics as a new member.. Sorry If I'm not supposed to! Link to the sword on eBay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/16th-Century-Tsuguhiro-Original-/262554106688?hash=item3d2171bb40:g:94IAAOSwbsBXnMTIor just search eBay U.S. for.. 16th Century Tsuguhiro Original. What do you all think.. it looks old, but who knows? I've already asked if there was any rust/pits, dents, chips, cracks or bends, he said there was a small chip in the tip area, but it was small. I requested photos of these areas and any Hamon, if present, I'll post them later if possible. Again, Great to be here.. Thanks for the assistance! Phil B. I enlarged these and "enhanced" them.. again, awaiting better photos!