Odd One

[Basho12]

I had thought this blade was a Naval tachi of the rust-resistant (stainless?) type, but when I got a closer look I'm seeing a pattern that suggests it's been acid-etched, and thus a fake. One thing I don't understand, and wouldn't expect to see, is that it appears to be suriage, with the blade shortened by about an inch (you can see the position of the original munemachi in the third photo). Has anyone seen one done like that before?

 

 

 

 

There's a mei, for what that's worth. I'm reading it as Yoshikawa Tsune.

 

[paulb]

Richard,

I havent seen this done before either, but I am sorry to say that I believe your assessment about it being a fake is accurate.

[Brian]

Richard,

That nakago immediately tells you it is a fake. You don't have to look past the kanji or lack of finishing off...or yasurime.

After a few years, you get an instinct, and can tell after half a second of viewing. Just keep looking at real swords and reading, and you will be ok.

 

Brian

[Basho12]

Thanks for the confirmation. Lesson learned, though I'm glad it wasn't a more expensive one.

[estcrh]

Thanks for the confirmation. Lesson learned, though I'm glad it wasn't a more expensive one.

The damascus type pattern running into the edge were the temper line should be is the first clue of a Chinese or at least sword, every time you see this from now on you will know, and if its any consolation to you I have one of those at home to. I keep it as a learning tool for other people as it taught me a valuable lesson.