Identify sword origin WWII sword from my veteran army dad

Joined
May 13, 2017
Messages
3
So,
Hoping this forum can help me. My dad was in the army and in Japan when Hirohito surrendered to US. While active duty, he bought a sword. No idea if it is real and looking for ways to identify.
Did take handle off easily, markings on a couple pics.
So. Can you help me sort out what he bought those many years ago?
Thanks, Mike

Several attempts to get pics here. Failing. Link to pics here. Sorry.
http://imgur.com/a/OCIlB

Any advice, insight is very welcome!
 
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Well, thank you! The other side of tang does not seem to have any writing. I had read the maker, date, would be on one or both sides?

Thanks
 
I think he is referring to brushing the chalk out of the mei as recommended.

However, to be on the safe side. Aaron is correct, no cleaning the nakago (tang)!

Do nothing more than brush the chalk out with a soft toothbrush !!

Sorry, if I wasn't clear on that.
 
And don't Sharpen it or any other Silliness Please! Proper clean up, Sharpening, restoration can really only be done by a few professionals, Usually in Japan but there may a few in the USA without lowering the value...

Proceed Slowly! We don't want you to mistakenly do anything that could damage that collectable sword!

Look for a Local Japanese Sword Society, I Believe there is one in San Fransisco. Contact them... Go Slow!
 
Do nothing more than brush the chalk out of the inscription with a soft toothbrush and wipe the blade with oiled rag !! Traditionally, clove oil, but unless you buy the expensive stuff out of Japan, you are buying scented mineral oil. Mineral oil or light machine oil will be fine. Do not touch the blade with your bare hands or fingers, the acids from your skin will corrode the blade (#1 no-no for handling a Japanese sword).

Care and maintenance of the Japanese sword.
http://yakiba.com/care_maintenance.htm
 
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