17th century Japanese wakizashi with Shirasaya (protective storage scabbard). The blade has a midare hamon (scattered edge pattern). The blade is 19 inches and the tang is 5.75 inches, for a combined length of 24.75 inches. This classifies the sword as a wakizashi, indicating that this was likely designed for indoor or one-handed use. The blade is 1.2 pounds. Mei (artist signature) on tang translates to 'Minamoto Moritsugu, resident of Hizen province on an auspicious day of the second month of Kan'ei 20 (1643 CE).' Minamoto Moritsugu was a smith of the Kongo Hyoue forge. which was associated with the Kamado Shrine and produced katana and other weapons for militant Buddhist factions. The tang is in the 'Sotoba' shape, innovated by the Kongo Hyoue, but was likely cut at some point. The tang has two mekugi-ana (holes where the hilt is attached), consistent with the blade being modified at a later point to fit a more modern tsuka (hilt), likely the Second World War. The tsuka is also consistent with those produced during World War 2, with 20th century cloth wrapping and shark skin, in the Shingunto model. The tsuka is 11 inches. The tsuba (guard) is cast iron with gilt gold flower design, also consistent with WWII. The blade shows some evidence of use, with two miniscule notches in the cutting edge of the blade. There is some patination and rusting, consistent with use. Overall, the blade could be classified as 'tired. The blade is relatively short compared to the tsuka, which was designed for a longer Otherwise, the blade is in very good, original condition. This lot has a reserve.

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February 19, 2025 9:00 AM EST
2500 Apalachee Pkwy
Tallahassee, FL, US 32301

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