sksguide

Thank you ever so much, Uwe Sackowski. I really appreciate and such a prompt reply. The little I have read about this smith does not make reference to his swords being 'hand forged' as shown by the 'tan' stamp on the tang. I assume being hand forged makes for a better blade and is more collectible. As hand forged would it be early in WW II and more likely an order from a solider? Any information would be greatly appreciated. Roger F.

Please trandslate the signature and tang mark above signature. Fuller and Gregory ( Military swords of Japan...) say the tang mark is Tan or Kitau stamp meaning 'to forge' or 'forged' and probably used to indicate a hand forged blade (pg 82 item iii). Please confirm and I request identification of signature and what it may mean. Thank you. Roger F.

Thank all of you for your kind assitance. Reviewing my notes, I recall Harry Watson said he was having trouble translating this because it was written in "grass" writing . Maybe this will help upon review. thanks again. Roger F

FYI, some years ago I had the privilege of meeting Harry AFU Watson at a Tampa Sword show. He examined my Tsuba and told me it was Goto. A few years ago I got back in touch with Harry and asked him to translate the signature. He said it was difficult and would take some time. Unfortunately he died before he could translate it. A real loss as he was such a fine and knowledgeable gentleman. Hence my request here having just learned of this translation service. I really appreciate the above information, comments and suggestions.

No, no, I did not remove the patina. I moved the light souce to flood that area. The Tsuba is very heavy, more so then if it was iron or cooper, etc. I was told by an expert ( who could not read the inscrption) that it was Goto.The medal was gold, silver and something else. ( excuse my ignorance). Thank you for your information .I have many reference books and will look up MINO Kinko and San-Mai Tsuba. Much appreciated... Roger F

Hi I am new to this forumn. I collect miltary of all countries. I have a very nice older sword and this very nice Tsuba that came with it. I would appreciate a translation and any other information you might have. The letters have been illuminated to view. The Tsuba is all a dark finish as shown elsewhere.