Samurai Swords

[Dr. Gonzo]

My grandfather was a Marine and was stationed in the Pacific during WWII. He passed away at the age of 94 and as part of his estate, I inherited (2) samurai swords. My uncle, who had them in his possession for years, said the swords were taken off of Japanese officers.

My question is, how can I determine if these are real Japanese samurai swords or replicas? They have been wrapped in plastic for what seems like 15+ years and I have no reason to doubt the story but I have no experience in these weapons and have no way of knowing if they were purchased from a souvenir store. The swords and their sheaths are in pretty rough shape but if they are real, I would like to get them restored.

If these picture are too crude I can take better ones.

 

[SID297]

In for pics.

They should have maker's marks on them somewhere.

 

[Silverstrike]

Sounds to me to be either officers or NCO mass produced types made during the war,

Like Sid said pictures would be a plus as then it could be determined on just who made them and during what time frame.

 

[Dr. Gonzo]

I was able to pull off the handle of one of the swords and there was a making.

I'll definitely post of pictures later today.

 

[Corbic]

WWII "Samurai" Officer swords where generally mass produced - much like modern US Marine Mameluke Swords.

In some rare cases the swords could have been family heirlooms.

Here is a good link to start reading up -

http://quanonline.com/military/military_reference/japanese/japanese.html

Even if they are not monetaraly valuable, hang on to them. I bought an excellent condition Arisaka Type 99 off a kid in college for $70. His Grand Father kept it after "Growdell Canal" (Guadalcanal).

Beautiful rifle, 1940 build date. Kid made my stomach turn.

 

[VerySneaky]

Sorry for your loss, I hope you were able to learn from him and hear his experiences.

First, I am no expert, but:
"Katana" or "Wakizashi" or "Shin-Gunto" or "Kai-gunto". Shin-gunto were the blades carried by Japanese NCOs.
Look for serial numbers (also check if hilt and blade SN match), any Japanese kanji (letters), a cherry blossom near the hilt or on the guard, or logos as you would if you were buying something for yourself. If there are any of the tassles left, the color of the tassel was indicative of rank.

 

[VaporGT]

WWII "Samurai" Officer swords where generally mass produced - much like modern US Marine Mameluke Swords.

In some rare cases the swords could have been family heirlooms.

Here is a good link to start reading up -

http://quanonline.com/military/military_reference/japanese/japanese.html

Even if they are not monetaraly valuable, hang on to them. I bought an excellent condition Arisaka Type 99 off a kid in college for $70. His Grand Father kept it after "Growdell Canal" (Guadalcanal).

Beautiful rifle, 1940 build date. Kid made my stomach turn.

$70?!?!? That's a steal. Like you said they're not particularly expensive, but its an awesome piece of history.

 

[RedRocketMike]

Antiques Roadshow son!

 

[thomas91169]

Even if they are not monetaraly valuable, hang on to them. I bought an excellent condition Arisaka Type 99 off a kid in college for $70. His Grand Father kept it after "Growdell Canal" (Guadalcanal).

Beautiful rifle, 1940 build date. Kid made my stomach turn.

I would love to have a legit Arisaka to go next to my Mosin.

 

[VaporGT]

I would love to have a legit Arisaka to go next to my Mosin.

Then you'll have to get an original M1 to round it out.

 

[oldmodman]

If only it were a Hatori Hanzo sword.

 

[nxhappy]

no pics ?!?!?!??!

 

[03cobra#694]

I was able to pull off the handle of one of the swords and there was a making.

I'll definitely post of pictures later today.

no pics ?!?!?!??!

See above.

Antiques Roadshow son!

I'll actually watch that once in a while. Pretty interesting stuff shows up on there.

 

[el jefe 302]

If only it were a Hatori Hanzo sword.

Didn't he swear a blood oath to never make another sword?

 

[thomas91169]

Then you'll have to get an original M1 to round it out.

That too.

 

[Steve@TF]

i dont know that much about them but let me call my good friend who does.

'http://www.troll.me?p=683381'

 

[Coiled03]

If only it were a Hatori Hanzo sword.

Well played, sir.

 

[Dr. Gonzo]

Updated OP with pictures as promised.

 

[Corbic]

Updated OP with pictures as promised.

Junk. I'll give you $140 for them, what's your PayPal.





^_~

 

[Mr. Mach-ete]

My grandfather brought back several swords, among other things, from Japan back in '46. My father is in the possession of the items, I'm sure I'll inherit them one day. I was told years ago, under the wrap on the handle is the information of whom the sword was made for and by. Could be a rumor, could be fact, I have no idea.