Inherited a Sword - Any info would be appreciated

[Dispo]

My in laws were moving and asked if I wanted some "knives". The " knives consisted of one civil war Calvary sabre, a brass french bayonet and this "sword". I literally know nothing about it. i thought it was WWII possibly and showed someone, he was thinking it was a bit earlier. Any info, translation or background info would be greatly appreciated. I have lot of photos but the upload size limit is constraining me. I can provide more on request.

 

Thanks in advance

 

Dispo

 

[Dispo]

more pics

[Dispo]

I do know that it is missing the bamboo insert. But that is about it!

[Ray Singer]

This is a very nice thing to receive. It is a very old koto, Muromachi period blade signed Hakushū / Hoki ju Hiroyoshi. 

[Ray Singer]

The date is either Eisho or Tensho 10. 

 

Eisho / Tensho ju nen ni gatsu hi. 

[Dispo]

And my online research journey begins. i thank you

[Ray Singer]

See below for a link that will help you with your research. Please do not do anything to clean or polish the blade on your own and most especially do not remove any of the rust from the tang (nakago). Readability is fine as it is and it is very important to preserve the patina in that area. 

 

https://nihontoclub.com/view/smiths/meisearch?order=field_smith_start_era_value&sort=asc&type=All&mei_op=contains&mei=廣賀

[Dispo]

HIR541

Hiroyoshi

Hōki

Bunroku (1592-1596)

伯耆國住廣賀作     to my very untrained eyes this looks like it.

[Dispo]

For care I have used a light coat new clean and clear Remington oil. I did use a tooth brush gently to get it readable but nothing else. Thanks!

[Grey Doffin]

Hi Brandon,

Here you will find care and handling: https://nbthk-ab2.or...ord-characteristics/  You would be doing yourself and your tanto a huge favor if you read it at least once. Be sure to replace the bamboo peg in the handle ASAP; it is quite important (whittle one from a chopstick). If you find yourself with a dozen questions feel free to call. I'm no authority but I have 40 years experience with nihonto and will help where I can.

Congrats; very nice gift. Grey 218-340-1001 central time

[Ray Singer]

1 hour ago, Dispo said:

For care I have used a light coat new clean and clear Remington oil. I did use a tooth brush gently to get it readable but nothing else. Thanks!

Great, it definitely appears to be in a place where no further brushing of the nakago is needed. Enjoy your Hiroyoshi, and congratulations on it. 

[Baba Yaga]

Winner Winner chicken dinner

 

A couple options. You may want to have it professionally polished and papered.  It looks to be worth it.  

[Dispo]

Thank you all for the responses. It was a total unknown in my wife's family and sat in a drawer for more than a few years once it was given to me.

 

I was at a gun show and saw a similar one. I said as much to the guy, he replied " I doubt it, this is from the 1500s"

 

Winner indeed!

 

Thanks again as I heed your advice.