Was being sold basically as "junk" status but I thought it had a cool story to tell. The scabbard was sawed into to show there's no knife hidden I assume? Was listed as blade stuck in handle, was able to free it with a little patience and elbow grease. Was surprised to see a small signature on the tang, hard to make it out though. Neat pickup for the collection, especially for $20.
Hello, recently started collecting nihonto and other antiques in Japan, picked up this beauty that was listed as "found during a house cleaning." Was hoping to learn more about it. It's a decommissioned blade (cut just above the Habaki) sadly but I see them sold this way a lot, assuming so that they don't have to fall under registration, and I guess it makes it part of its history now. Was surprised to see the Tsuba and Tang are both signed. The Tsuka is quite dirty/dusty, would love to see some of the former brilliance in the Ito and menuki brought out but looks like the only recommended light cleaning method is a gentle brushing with horse hair brush? Grateful for any tips on care, otherwise I just admire it as it is, the age and grit telling its own story. Thank you for the community!