steve3322

That seems to be the consensus. It doesn't seem that re-wrapping the saya would be economically beneficial unless it's just something I decide to do for personal reasons. I'd love to know what my father paid for it. This was out of his wheelhouse as well. I was surprised to find it in his collection. Thanks everyone for your input.

Matt Brice said the foilage indicated an earlier sword when more detail was used. That looks like my sword minus the ray skin and cherry blossoms. I'm not sure about gold plated brass unless it's worn off-mine has a solid brass color with a little green in the folding guard. Are there any production numbers for this type sword?

Thank you both! That's very informative. As I stated above, I am a collector of U.S. militaria but this sword is "foreign" ground for me (pun intended). To answer your questions, Bruce, the guard is slightly loose and has approximately 1/2" of side to side movement. You are correct about the second belt hanger loop. Someone has glued them in place. I moved the second one with my hand and the adhesive released. I suspect the others would also if I choose the re-cover the saya. I plan to keep this sword so if either or both of you could help with my final question, I would greatly appreciate it. I have to put a value on the sword "as is" for the estate, and, for my own purposes, I would like to know if it would be worth having the saya re-covered. As a collector, I tend to be a purist and I avoid restoration of antiques; but, in this case, the saya covering is completely gone. Value, I know, is primarily based on rarity and condition. This one has condition issues but I don't know how rare they are. Overall value? Thanks again, Steve

Being as I'm completely new to these type swords, can I get some clarification on the comments posted. What is a Hannin level official? Sword looks navy but saya (scabbard) looks colonial? Sword has European style? Early years? 1895-1945? Any idea as to the value of the sword in it's current condition? I have to value it for estate purposes. Also, would it be worth having the saya re-covered and by whom? Don't give up on me. I'm just a newbie at these. Ask me about Winchesters, Colts or Marlins and I'm much more knowledgeable. Thanks for the continued help, Steve

Here are some pictures of the scabbard showing the wood on both sides. I've read that it could have been wrapped in shark or ray skin.

Hey Bruce, Thanks for your reply. When trying to identify the sword, I've been unable to find an image with the vines/foilage attached to the cherry blossom. Also, the sword blade is more pointed (uniform, not up swept) than others. What are your thoughts about these two factors? Steve Here are close up's of the cherry blossom emblem.

Hello everyone, This is my first post to the forum and my first experience with Japanese swords. My father passed away a few months ago and my brother and I have begun the process of handling his estate. His interests focused mostly on revolvers and old west artifacts (cowboys). There are various items that did not fit his collection but obviously caught his eye. This sword is one of those items. My uncle believes it to be Japanese. I know very little of these weapons so please forgive me if a use the wrong terminology-that's why I'm here- to gain the correct descriptions. I have some knowledge of U.S. military swords. Actual fighting swords are heavier and more substantially made. Presentation swords and ceremonial swords are lighter and more ornate. This sword, if indeed Japanese, seems (to me) to fit the latter category. The blade is 26" long and the scabbard appears to be missing it's covering. I've tried to find internet images of similar designs and haven't had much success. Estimates (guesses) run from standard naval officer's sword to political officer of an occupied territory (pre WWII). Any help in properly identifying this sword is greatly appreciated. I have not found any markings on the sword or scabbard. I have the sword in hand so I can answer any questions or post more pictures if needed. Thanks, Steve