TimB

Thank you, David

Correct Geraint, This is how it looked when I took the photo. It is in fact black lace and I dont know who put it there or when. I'll replace this with something more appropriate at some point. I was wondering about the frayed Ito at the top of the tsuka. Looks like a different color than the ito, but maybe I'm just seeing things. After reading a whole bunch of threads on the subject Gunzuko and the ones that may have carried swords. I'm curious if it was common, for a sword like mine without a loop for a rank tassel to be used. Simply trying to place where/who this sword's owner may have been before it became a take-home souvenir. Maybe wishful thinking on my part. Tim

Hello Kolekt-To I have been wondering that about this sword too. Wasn't sure it it was just the tsuko-ito(?) end unraveling. Almost looks blue and gray in color but....I don't know

Thank you very much, PNSHOGUN. This is all new to me and am just trying to learn more about this newly acquired piece in my collection. There is no apparent date and also no arsenal stamps of any kind so would this likely be a personal purchase? Thanks again Tim

Thank you, Bruce Is The name Masafusa the factory where the blade was finished? Kind regards Tim

Thank you

Hello, I was hoping someone can help with this sword ID. Signature and forging stamp(?) on one side of the tang and item# stamp(?)on the other. Thank you for any assistance. regards Tim