MtnView

Thank you Thomas!

Thanks Brian. Can't afford that right now but I'm planning on a trip to a college library, 2 hrs. away, that has a copy. Besides the monetary value, the history of the sword is intriguing and holds its own value.

I guess to be honest, I am stunned. I figured that I had a $50-$100 sword, if I was lucky. My quest started out of curiosity and the possibility of returning it the family of the original owner. I have since found out how difficult that can be. Now I'm dumbfounded and don't know what to say. It's taking a while to digest everything I've learned and let it sink in.

Thanks Steve

Many thanks for the info and the education! It is much appreciated.

I feel somewhat crass asking this but what would be the approximate value of this sword? Do I need to worry about insurance?

Are the lines where the tang meets the blade the laminations or something else?

Thanks for all of the input. Although I've always been fascinated with Japanese culture, I am finding myself ignorant in this area and am enjoying the education you are giving me. Stephen: are these the views you are looking for?

Thank you all for such a quick response and the information you provided. lonely panet: What specifically do you need to look at and what is a cracking sword?

Greetings, I am hoping for some information about a sword I received from a family friend about 45 years ago. I didn't know where to turn until I heard about this message board. Any help/info would be appreciated. The letter that accompanied the sword was dated 5 Dec, 1945 from a Lt Col. at the HQ of the 1st Cavalry Division. He was stationed in Gamagori, Japan at the time. Attached are some photos. Please let me know if you need a view of anything specific. Thank you in advance for your help