Scogg

I stand by my previous comment on quality. But for the average collectors point of view: the perceived quality of available blades will range; what one collector sees as a “good” blade at $12,000, another might not consider worthwhile unless it’s over $100,000. These evaluations are shaped by personal taste, collecting goals, and financial means. Saving for a $12K blade is a commendable goal, but that price point is ultimately arbitrary and varies widely among collectors. Given that swords range from a few hundred to well over six figures, it’s all relative. -Sam

What makes a sword objectively great or bad isn’t relative; it’s based on craftsmanship and quality and to some level historical significance. But what makes a sword a great addition to my collection is 100% personal. I've handled blades from junk quality to TokuJuyo, and the reality is, most collectors (myself included) won’t own an objectively "great" blade due to budget. Instead, I focus on what’s “good for me”; pieces that align with my goals and limitations. If you love Nihonto, have seen top-tier blades, but have a modest budget, it’s unlikely you’ll collect anything truly “high-end.” And that’s okay. You just need to find what’s meaningful within your reach. And maybe more importantly, understanding what it is that you're buying. Just my views as someone who has no intent to profit from my collection, -Sam Edit: To remain on topic, I have saved for items in my collection, and I think people should push their budget, and be patient, to get the best they can afford. But what i've been able to save might be pennies relative to what others are capable of. I am under no illusions that my collection reflects that.

Lots of trusted dealers listed here on the NMB that I would recommend. If any new collectors find themselves in these threads of yours, I think there’s plenty of arguments on both sides to consider. I subscribe to the opinion that nicer items offer more satisfaction long term. And I think it’s important for new collectors to see that viewpoint. When new pages are created for this thread, those counter arguments get easily lost in the mass of pages. So here we are again -Sam

The idea that items can be bought on eBay is not at all novel. Many people have bought on eBay. It just requires a careful eye, and more importantly, knowing what you’re buying to the best of your ability. I would refer to my comment on the top of page 2 of this same thread I personally would not recommend eBay to new collectors.

I think I got what I paid for, and I’m happy with that. I appreciate the effort he puts into his descriptions. Bargain isn’t the word I’d use, as I’d never expect to get more than what I paid for it because I’m not a dealer

No, but as a moderator I often read the “new” posts. Especially ones from threads that have a history of heated discussions. Just a coincidence, sorry if that bothers you. -Sam Edit: For what it’s worth, I’ve also bought and been happy with items from that dealer.

eBay has dealers too, and those are photos from a dealer that I recognize. He puts much effort into his descriptions and is knowledgeable about the items he sells

Not exactly, but I’m struggling to find sources with good images this is what I was thinking https://www.marto.es/index.php/en/marto-en/oriental-weapons/katana-detail

I think that’s the logo for something called “marto” Ive seen them shared on social media over the years. Kind of a mall-sword / display replica as far as I understand

The rarity and desirability of a "serial number 1" would likely command a premium; and could be the kind of item that might attract a buyer for whom money is no object. Although, that sword likely no longer exists. In addition to the initial production run of Copper handled Type 95s from 1937, there are also reports of prototypes dating back to the 1920s. Nick Komiya discusses these early examples in the Warelics thread (linked below), with quote and image attached here: https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/Japanese-militaria/short-development-history-type-95-gunto-676112/?s=7148dfd90e6b382bc90f0ac3f85e0bd9 "Prototypes 1 to 4 (1923-1928) The first prototypes were ready in March of 1923, which followed the precedent of the Type 32 by having a cavalry version and another version for un-mounted troops. These were presented for testing at the Toyama School and the Cavalry School. However, surprisingly, both schools responded, saying that a sword for a two-handed grip was more desirable, which gave rise to a common version for both types of services. This was the concept of the second prototype, submitted to both schools in March 1925. The new design was favorably received, but some added weight as well as a shift of the center of gravity to the front was suggested. Such was then the third prototype that was tested in September 1926. The blade was thicker by 0.5mm among other changes. The feedback pointed to too much curvature in the blade and the schools preferred a grip closer in design to a Samurai sword. Also, the Cavalry School did some back-treading, saying a handguard would not be unwelcome. The 4th round of prototype tests were carried out in May 1928 and the 5th round followed in September 1929." So, begs the question, where are these prototypes hiding? Do any still exist? Would they be worth more for rarity, or less because they're fairly unknown? I think there's one in Dawsons, but I don't have my books on me right now. I've seen claims that they're still around, but nothing concrete. -Sam

Funny, selling my collection of Star Wars Legends Comics is what allowed me to purchase my first gunto May the force be with you, -Sam

The lowest serial number that I have recorded is #4, and the source is Donald Barnes, which is also listed in Dawsons. The lowest number I've ever seen online (with my own eyes), is #71 with matching saya. Shared here on the NMB earlier this year. 161 is very low, and would be a valuable addition to any Japanese military sword collection. But for 9k?! I’d rather have a papered koto blade in nice polish If anyone has questions regarding 95s, I'm always happy to share what i've gathered. All the best, -Sam

Desire is the cause of suffering In these circles (on NMB), I’d argue it’s taboo to rush into a purchase. -Sam

If you click on the original image, it expands with some great detail. Maybe try the brightness on your device. I’ve edited a version from your image and adjusted the contrast a little. Maybe it helps?

I've learned more from these Kantei posts than I have in years of trying to decipher Jacques' cryptic one-liners . Sad indeed... Looking forward to the answer on this one, -Sam

Between about $100 and $200 USD, per inch, for a polish is what i've heard around the grapevine. So a 26 inch katana would presumably cost ~$3900 for a full polish; give or take depending on the polishers current pricing. Keep in mind that the cost of polishing a sword doesn’t always reflect the sword’s actual value. For example, you might spend $4,000 on a polish for a sword that would only be worth $3,000 even after full restoration. I see swords with mismatched seppa very frequently. Maybe even more often than with properly fitted seppa All the best, -Sam

Thank you @Lewis B and @SteveM, my excited mistake. I’ve edited my previous post to reflect

Incorrect: Pictures of the Shintogo Kunihiro Correction: Hatakeda Moriie Another scenario where it looks way better in person because of the barrier. It’s pretty challenging to get a good photo of these display blades, and there’s lots of people. Still, I hope my photos offer something to admire

Got a better photo of the Go Yoshihiro kissaki But this is the best my phone can do given the barrier, angles, and light

Found some S motif tsuba at the 25’ SF sword show. One listed as a bracken plant, which I think is interesting. It’s also a little more elongated than the other examples. Interesting shape that I don’t see depicted very often. -Sam

not that I can see in-person. I think that’s just reflection from some busy overhead lighting (see reflection in that first photo), and it being behind a plastic screen made photography challenging.

A couple shots of the Go Yoshihiro. Tough to get good photos of these special swords because they’re behind a barrier. For good reason Hope you enjoy, -Sam

Just to be able to see the Go Yoshihiro is a real privilege. Amazing sword that’s taken much of my attention today

Sitting in the airport now. Hope to attend the show this afternoon, and all day tomorrow. Safe travels, everyone! Take pictures to share! I’ll get a few too. I’ll be the scrawny guy with a mustache, please say hello if you find me. -Sam

Whoops, my misunderstanding. Sounds like a fun trip! I’ll let others take over, because I’ve actually never bought from Japan. One thing I would recommend being very familiar with, is appropriate sword etiquette; so you don’t find yourself in a situation where you’ve unintentionally offended anyone. I even re-read these links sometimes before going to shows. https://swordsofjapan.com/nihonto-library/nbthk-etiquette/ https://www.nihontoownersclub.com/etiquette Safe travels! -Sam