cluckdaddy76

I found the tariff code I used; it is in the antique section Chapter 97. Code is 970610 and the website states this code if accepted it does not have a tariff applied. My description was antique metalwork. Not sure that swords fall under this as I have heard most have paid a tariff. I have a fuchi/kashira set coming soon, I will update again either way once received. Jason

Curran, I have also had my eye on a fuchi/kashira set that I am going to pull the trigger on too. I will write down what tariff code I used and post it once I make this happen. Not sure it would apply to swords, but I am thrilled it worked for this tsuba. Jason

I also say catalog it as it does mean something to you. The rest of what I was going to say Sam said first. Jason

I finally decided to make a purchase since tariffs have gone crazy in the US. I have some great news at least when shipping with DHL. They let me assign my own tariff code which they supply the link to when filling out the form. I selected "antique metalwork" as this seemed the most appropriate. You then are also asked for a brief description to go along with the code to which I wrote "antique metal fittings". This cleared customs without any issue and was delivered to my house today. This piece was also valued at more than $800 so it did not slip through that way even though I believe that has changed too and all items are tariffed no matter the cost. Just thought some members may be interested in this update. Has anyone else had this experience or have the opposite experience? Jason

I believe the carving on the plate is supposed to be rain, anyone else have a different thought?

I agree completely, even though they are beautiful works of art, I tend to prefer iron. Especially very late Edo and Meiji pieces do not appeal to me very much. I do have a handful of soft metal tsuba , but I believe most of mine are older than late Edo. Here is one that has been set carefully at least twice, not sure that this museum grade as posted in the topic, but I also feel it is not too flashy either. Jason

I have watched offerings from Poulin for a few years now, I would stay away based on what I have seen from their stock. I hope you passed on this one. Jason

Here is one from my collection that resembles Dale’s last photo.

Sometimes this seller has variety when it comes to this tsuba, there is also a plain version with no color at all. One time he even had both listing at the same time . I just feel bad because people still buy them all the time.

https://www.jauce.com/auction/j1207560470 This dealer seems to have an unlimited supply of this particular reproduction tsuba listed in the link. I notice one from them nearly every week since I have been using the auctions as part of my studying tools. Looking at the other offerings, this dealer may specialize in all kinds of reproductions but cannot say for certain, it is just a feeling I have when looking at the quality of many of the items listed. I would suggest any new collectors stay away from any of the fittings listed, I just do not trust a seller who regularly posts modern fakes and even though a couple pieces may be actual Edo period tosogu, they are of very poor quality. I think most people have figured this particular tsuba in the link is no good, but I have seen them sell for upwards of $250 USD a few times in the last six months or so. Jason

Another example of a simple iron tsuba with minimal carving.

I am skeptical on these other tsuba as well. The open carving is very crude and the plates do not look well made. Color is often misleading in pics, but these all look similar and it looks off to me. Here is an example of one from my collection. Let me know if you can see any differences as to what I have mentioned. This theme I believe is a cherry blossom with snow on top. Your pieces also look very flat where many seem to be slightly concave. Jason

Here is one of mine with the same style carving Jason

Sent one from my work email. Jason