記事 Journal
Journal
Articles on collecting, identifying, and trading antique Japanese swords. Posts published monthly. RSS feed.
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How to identify a genuine Mantetsu blade
A practical guide for collectors evaluating a Koa Isshin Mantetsu claim — what the mei should look like, the hada and hamon to expect, and how to spot forgeries.
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Reading a Shōwa-era mei: a beginner's guide
A step-by-step guide to reading the signatures found on WW2-era Japanese sword tangs — calendar dates, smith names, and when to call in a translator.
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How to tell a nihonto from a shōwatō
If you have a WW2-era Japanese sword and aren't sure what you have, this guide explains the visual and structural differences between traditional nihonto and machine-made shōwatō.
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Buying your first Japanese sword: a checklist
A practical guide for first-time nihonto buyers — budgets, where to buy, what papers to require, and the questions every seller should be able to answer.
