Help in translating the signatures found on Japanese swords together with tables of Kanji characters used by Japanese swordsmiths.

Japanese sword information for the non-collector with aids in determining if a Japanese sword is a reproduction or an antique sword.

How to read Japanese swordsmiths signatures (mei) and other inscriptions on the tangs (nakago) of Japanese swords (Nihonto)

Reading the date inscriptions is mostly straightforward. However, a few tools makes the task a little easier. First, there are three basic types of archaic Japanese dating to be considered. These are: * Nengo: era names. * Eto: the Chinese sexagenary calender (animal zodiac) * Koki (皇紀): the imperial calendar.

Japanese sword information, history, care, glossaries, translate Kanji, sword smith oshigata, military swords, sword identification, articles, message board, Japanese sword clubs, links, more.

Dec 10, 2024 · Discover how to identify an authentic Japanese sword with this expert tips. Learn to read date inscriptions and distinguish between antiques and reproductions.

Sword Markings. When it comes to how you date a Japanese sword, it’s important to note that the higher quality Japanese swords were usually inscribed with the date they were made and signed by the blacksmith who made them.

Identification of swords requires removal of the TSUKA (handle), which may be accomplished by carefully forcing out the single tapered wooden peg (MEKUGI) which fastens it to the tang. The TSUKA may then be slid off the tang, revealing the maker’s signature and other identifying marks incised in the metal.

Japanese swords may also have inscriptions on both sides of the nakago. The Omote (outer side) on a Katana, Wakizashi and Tanto may show the smiths name, province and title if he had one. The Ura (inner side) will sometimes show the date the sword was made.

The Samurai sword can have a series of markings in the tang(Nakago) area. These markings are known as the signature(MEI). While a large number of swords bear some form of signature, it is important to notice that not all Samurai swords are signed.