Can anyone read Japanese?

[sixguns]

I have an old sword that my great uncle brought back from Japan while there during the occupation, I have read that when you remove the handle, if it is old, the makers name and year it was made is under it. Well I did, but I cant read it, any help? It is in a wooden scabbard ( I read that this was like a protective case untill needed). Thanks for any help.

sixguns

[PBK]

Try sending a PM or e-mail to TreasureNet member Dave N Japan.

[Gypsy Heart]

Sorry Six Guns . Thanks for the PM ,and I do know a bit about swords,but I cant read Japanese ...but you could try

http://www.japanesetranslations.co.uk/index.htm?

[sixguns]

Thank you very much Gypsyheart, if I can ever return a favor, please let me know...

[sixguns]

better pic.....

[Gypsy Heart]

Can you post a pic of the handle?

[Siegfried Schlagrule]

every japanese car plant in north america has resident japanese who are bi-lingual in english. They all have websites where you can contact them. They would be capable of translating your sword characters. whether they would be willing is another matter. In many of the richest families inheritance and leadership is based on who owns the family sword. None of those can be legally reimported into Japan since they demilitarized so they must be smuggled. The standard scam is to offer a huge price for a particular sword delivered and then when you go there it is confiscated and you are imprisoned. A suitable bribe is then paid to the cops and the sword is returned to the family. Eventually you get to go home much wiser and lighter of money. good luck, siegfried schlagrule

[nhbenz]

Dimentions/pictures would help ID the origins of your blade. A problem that arises with the ID on these is that the Japanese characters have changed over time... In WWII the Japanese officers were allowed to use old family blades (a great piece of pride), which would then be fitted to look "standard". Your blade is clearly pre-1900, but a true specialist would really be required for your ID. I have struggled with this same situation. But the curve of the blade and other details might help someone here put a rough date to it. -Ben

[sixguns]

Thanks for the heads up Siegfried, I dont think I will plan a trip just right now, hahahaha... nhbenz, thanks for the info, maybe i might get lucky and run acroos someone who may know... I have a call into DAVE IN JAPAN right now, I am hoping he might be able to help, without me going of course, thanks again....

[PBK]

You might give these guys a try:

http://hometown.aol.com/machood/swordsociety1.html

Also, check your messages for more information.

[sixguns]

Thanks AGAIN PBK..... sixguns, your humble servant

[joe]

Can you post a pic of the handle?

This one reads "Bishu~Osafune Sukesada" a very wide line of sword smiths.
It is probably shinto era from around 1700.(interpretation by a friend)pretty old sword,
sometimes no amount of money can be brought

joe

[sixguns]

Thank you very much Joe, thats more than I know about it.... I will keep oiling it for anther 300 years, thanks again.....