Stewart

Thank you for all your help!

Thank you for the information. I will look into it some more. In regards to cleaning the blade, I started with methylated spirits and then with some more research was told that WD40 was good to remove the black coating. I used it yesterday and it worked extremely well with no problems to the blade currently. I’ll post a photo today of the cleaned blade. There is some light surface rusting that could be polished out I feel. I’ve heard that sewing machine oil is sufficient for blade maintenance after this? I’m just thinking of the ease of maintenance for the older person I’m getting this information for. in regards to the swordsmith’s name, if below is correct, I’d assume it would be with an ‘S’ not ‘z’?

I think it is iron

Thank you very much. Is there any significant history written in English on this swordsmith?

I thought the same in regards to preserving the blade. Can you suggest the best approach to remove the paint. I believe it isn’t probably a traditionally tempered made sword too.

I’ll endeavour to get a photo of tsuba to you tomorrow. There is no date engraved on the other side of the nakago.

I’ve been given a sword returned from PNG in WWll to look at. It has a signature but the blade Unfortunately seems to have been painted black. Any help would be appreciated. Many thanks, Duncan

Thanks for the quick reply John. Yes. It’s very unfortunate about the blade. I’ve actually lightly oiled it before I posted as you have suggested. I’ll let my friend know of the findings as given here. I’ll suggest the polishing but I feel he will opt out and keep it as is ( as you suggested ). I’m certain the value has decreased drastically for this sword but what would be a possible price given for the sword before and after a restoration do you think? Thanks again. Duncan

Thank you very much for the valuable information. The blade seems to be in very poor condition. It looks like someone has tried to sharpen and/polish it. It also has a decent chip toward the kissaki. I’m hoping the blade can be polished back to a better condition correctly.