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So, many years ago I picked this up in a trade and it has pretty much lived in my safe since then. It came with a story about a relative taking if from the body of a slain Japanese officer. After I got it I took it to the regional expert in such things (Steven Strauch) who informally appraised it as follows:
Smith: Nagamitsu
Style: Gunto Zukuri Katana
Temperline: Gunome Choji
Era: Gendaito made in 1942 or 1943.
Basically, this sword was a handmade piece made during the war and commissioned for an officer -- it is a true Nihontō i.e. a Japanese style sword made in Japan by traditional methods.
The maker Nagamitsu is a "named smith" known for making a solid and heavy-duty sword, and his swords have excelled at kabutowari (helmet cutting). This one is definitely of that type and is a sturdy specimen. More about Nagamitsu: http://www.japaneseswordindex.com/naga.htm
Regarding condition, the old military furniture is battered, incomplete and completely un-restored. But, the blade is in excellent condition -- partial original polish, no rust, cracking, or serious pitting, and nice clear signature.
I have had the sword for years. My long term plans were to have a shirasaya made for it and just sit on it as an investment, but I never got around to it and my hobbies and interests have changed
As of now I will sell it $3000 OBRO, which is far less than the appraisal value (which was done informally some years back). I'm not desperate for money, and I'm not opposed to holding it for another 10 years. I will consider trades of a nice Colt Python, S&W Model 27, Colt AR15, Colt 1911 Series 70, or Desert Eagle Mark I, PLUS cash. I will consider straight-across trades for pre-1974 American Automobiles in excellent condition, or multiple top quality vintage firearms.
Let me know if you're interested in having a look at it.
Smith: Nagamitsu
Style: Gunto Zukuri Katana
Temperline: Gunome Choji
Era: Gendaito made in 1942 or 1943.
Basically, this sword was a handmade piece made during the war and commissioned for an officer -- it is a true Nihontō i.e. a Japanese style sword made in Japan by traditional methods.
The maker Nagamitsu is a "named smith" known for making a solid and heavy-duty sword, and his swords have excelled at kabutowari (helmet cutting). This one is definitely of that type and is a sturdy specimen. More about Nagamitsu: http://www.japaneseswordindex.com/naga.htm
Regarding condition, the old military furniture is battered, incomplete and completely un-restored. But, the blade is in excellent condition -- partial original polish, no rust, cracking, or serious pitting, and nice clear signature.
I have had the sword for years. My long term plans were to have a shirasaya made for it and just sit on it as an investment, but I never got around to it and my hobbies and interests have changed
As of now I will sell it $3000 OBRO, which is far less than the appraisal value (which was done informally some years back). I'm not desperate for money, and I'm not opposed to holding it for another 10 years. I will consider trades of a nice Colt Python, S&W Model 27, Colt AR15, Colt 1911 Series 70, or Desert Eagle Mark I, PLUS cash. I will consider straight-across trades for pre-1974 American Automobiles in excellent condition, or multiple top quality vintage firearms.
Let me know if you're interested in having a look at it.
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