Tachi Or Katana

[karagoz]

Hello, my name is Al. I like Japanese WW2 swords and unfortunately confused when I am getting something older. Nagasa is 631 mm. ( 24.84" )  It will be great if someone can help me with two questions: is it Tachi or Katana? ( I am confused because the mei placement shows Katana on one side and Tachi on the other ) and approximately the age of the blade. Thank you and best regards to everyone. Al.

[Shugyosha]

Hi Al,

 

The signature is on the side that would be visible when the sword is worn with the edge upward so, it's a katana if it's long enough.

 

The inscription on the other side is the date...unfortunately neither are very clear to me but I can make out "Bishu Osafune" on the signature side. I'd guess sue bizen so pre 1600 but probably not pre 1500 if the date tallies . It looks like it's machi okuri and probably started life as a katana for single handed use (katate uchi) but the cutting edge was shortened so that it could take a longer grip for two handed use later on.

 

Maybe someone with better eyes can help with filling in the blanks on the date and signature.

 

Best,

John

[hxv]

To add to what John already said, the last two Kanji of the signature are Sukesada.

 

Hoanh

[Ken-Hawaii]

Lots & lots of Sukesada tosho! Bizento.

 

 

Ken

[Alex A]

Some useful info http://www.ksky.ne.jp/~sumie99/tachi,katana.html

[Grey Doffin]

I believe the date is Eisho Roku Nen Ni Gatsu Hi.  February of 1509.

Grey

[karagoz]

OK, I see , I mistaken the date for the signature.. Thank you everyone for a very useful information and links. Very best regards. Al.