George Sanders

Ron, Ray, Bruce, John, Thank you so much for your responses. It is exciting to know there is more about the sword than it's just being a family memento. Now I need to know more about the smith and the characteristics of the blade. The special order inscription that Ray identified is something that seems to make it unique. In my very limited reading, they are not common. Is the translation of the special order inscription within the scope of this forum or will I need to inquire elsewhere? I'm not in a rush, I've waited over sixty years for a translation, but now that it's begun I don't want the search to stall. I would appreciate any guidance on the best resources for my study. Printed material is my preference. Holding the text, like holding the blade, is infinitely more satisfying than screen shots. So much to assimilate just to ask the questions. Best regards, George

My father obtained this Japanese sword in the South Pacific during WWII. From what I have read, it does not appear to be a Gunto. I haven't identified any of the military references. Additionally, it has similar characters to those seen on Ronald Aguirre's October 21, 2024 Topic, "Mei Translation". Hence my conjecture that it is a Nihonto. Any assistance with translating the Mei is greatly appreciated. Best regards, George