Antique Katana
Katana obtained from grandfather a number of years ago. Wood handle, rope threaded through pommel. Original black metal sheath. Some knicks to the blade itself.
40 inches long
Not much known about it's history. Acquired from grandfather some years ago. He's passed now, so I can't get much more info about it. He was a former marine and the story is that he acquired it during his time in the military.
Inherited
Maybe
Dear Ryan,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Based on the images, this is a beautiful 19th century Katana, from East Asia, Japan. A beautiful wakizashi with a single-edged blade. This traditional Japanese sword was both a weapon and a symbol of authority and social status.
Marked. These types of swords were reproduced during the WWII period, designed in memory of the Japanese sword tradition and in usage between 1935 and 1945 for the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy.
This piece is in medium condition and no severe damage is visible in the images provided.
A fair market estimation would be between 200 to 400 USD.
Hello Ryan,
Changes were made accordingly. Have a great day.
Thank you for the appraisal. I do have one question, however. There is a stamp in the metal tab that "holds" the sheath and it appears to say 1861 (provided in pictures of sword above), could that be the production date? And if so, wouldn't that mean it pre-dates WWII by 84 years?