Information on Japanese sword

[R3licHunt3r]

Looking for information on this sword. Took a chance on this one, as I know little to nothing about Japanese pieces. This one appears to be for a child, but its certainly not something I'd let my kids run around with. Does anyone have an idea of what this is? Is it worth doing anything with? Leave as is? Is there a market larger than myself for it? lol

The tag reads Korekazu Musashi 1861. There is a marking drawn onto that tag that looks to match the only visible mark stamped on the tang. The entire item is less than 22" in length end to end.

I appreciate any light that can be shed on this item in advance.

Regards,
R3licHunt3r

 

[NihontoEd]

Looks like what is left of a Chigo-zashi or "Boy's Day" sword. These were presented to young boys of Samurai or Bushi families at age six(6).

Some were strictly ornamental, others were very well made, ranging from low end to very high end depending on the rank and wealth of the family.

This one is in very poor condition regardless of it's beginnings. The nakago is deteriorated beyond repair. It doesn't appear to be traditionally made as there is no sign of hada or hamon. Though in fairness the blade condition and the photos are so poor, that perhaps it can not be seen. It is missing one o-seppa and one ko-seppa.

The reference to Korekazu is pointless without being able to see and confirm any inscription on the nakago. The photos are of such low quality that I can't see any inscription. I see something, but it appears to be taped or drawn onto the nakago. Again, the photos are such low resolution that if you attempt to enlarge it, it becomes too blurry to see.

IMHO it is worth little to nothing and is certainly not a candidate for restoration.

 

[R3licHunt3r]

I appreciate all that information NihontoEd. Little value just means it's going to be lots of fun. This particular sword happens to be my son's favorite, so I think it now sounds like the perfect candidate for him to restore! He's building quite the collection of kids swords, but none of them have a blade like this one.

I had not really thought much about the quality of the photos, but I'll keep that in mind moving forward.

 

[NihontoEd]

Sounds as though it has found the perfect home. Glad your son is enjoying it.

Just FYI there were seven (7) generations of Ishido Korekazu smiths from Musashi province. 1861 would have been the shichidai or 7th generation. He was born in 1820 and died in 1891.

He was a good smith, if in fact he forged this sword.