Ben1

Hi, thanks for the reply. I was given the sword by someone and they wanted to get rid of it. They of course hit it with the classic sandpaper move as a few have mentioned due to it rusting. I wish they hadn’t. I just find it hard to believe it isn’t traditionally made. I am going to reach out to some reputable sword polisher and have them look at it and if they say it can be polished to make the hamon show through better or if they will at all, I’ll fork up the money for it. I know it’ll be expensive but if it is a traditional blade and it can be restored I would like to as I have no need to sell it and I’ll keep it over my mantle. If I do and once I get it back I can post some pictures of it!

@Bruce Pennington As stated in my last comment there is no other stamps. I attached a few pictures for you and others to view! Let me know what you think of this sword!

@Bruce Pennington I took the handle apart about an hour ago to look at the signature again. I had the metal fittings off because the person who had it before me had them on backwards. I do not recall seeing any stamp and I looked it over pretty good! The other side only shows a very faint green 31. Was this a well known maker? Also, do you think this is a machine made blade or was it traditionally made? thanks!

Hello, I believe what I have here is a WW2 Japanese Samurai Sword. I am new to Japanese Swords and know there is a lot around them, especially these WW2 era swords. I have posted a picture of the signature and a picture of the tang/blade, handle, and sheath. I think it is in rough shape but still find it cool. I posted a picture on Reddit and the tang was translated to: “豊後住國茂作 = made by Kunishige, resident of Bungo”. There are no stamps on the other side but what remains is old green paint the faintly resembles 31. Could anyone shed some light onto what the type of sword is, who the maker is, and if the blade is traditionally made and how old. I really want to know if the sword was made specifically for WW2 or if it is an older blade that was brought to war. I would be greatly appreciative! thanks, Ben P.S. I can post more pictures if needed