Toei Ju Ota Chickahide

[CrazyforYou]

Hi Everyone, 

I have been trying to gather information regarding this sword maker. I have googled, which did actually lead me here to give it a go. I see Ota travelled, and studied under a few different sword smiths, does anyone know why he moved from one to the other over his journey? I have one of his swords from wwii, which came home after the war by a family member, who wants to sell it, as she is getting on in life, but in order to do this, I first needed to know it’s value. I have been offered $1200.00 to $2800.00 for it so far. It is not polished, it was carried by an Officer, and once home, it has been in a wardrobe ever since! 76 years to date and counting. I really have loved finding out a little about the maker, and any info would be appreciated. 

[ROKUJURO]

Shane,

welcome to the NMB!

Unfortunately, your photos do not show any of the important features except the SUGATA. What about the NAKAGO? 

If you make an online search (with the correct name, he has nothing to do with chicken), you will find: 

It seems he was a well respected GENDAI smith, so congratulations if this is an authentic blade.  

Value and price of blades are affected by the condition. If you take the price of a decent polish (about $ 2.500.-- to 3.000.--) into consideration, you may come closer to the market value.

[Bruce Pennington]

Classic example of a privately owned sword brought into the war, re-fitted with leather-covered saya; tsuba replaced with officer tsuba; tsuka (handle) left as-is.  The tassel is likely off the cord of a sword bag, and not a rank tassel.

 

Like Jean said, pricing would be helped by seeing pics of the nakago (tang) and a close up or 2 of the blade showing as much detail of the hamon (temper line).

[CrazyforYou]

[ROKUJURO]

It would help us reading if you put the photos vertically (tip up). 
Date is February 1943.

[Bruce Pennington]

Fixed

[ROKUJURO]

Thank you Bruce! 

And a very happy and healthy birthday!