Description:

Finely-forged Japanese wakizashi blade, measuring 21" from "kissaki"(tip) to the habaki stop, and 26 1/2" long overall. The tang shows two holes for the "mekugi" (the peg retaining the grip), and the end is square cut, possibly indicating that the blade is "o-suriage", or cut down from a larger katana or tachi. The obverse of the tang is inscribed with a "mei" (signature) of eight vertically-placed kanji in two groups of four separated by the mekugi holes, untranslated by us. The tang further shows an even layer of brown rust and file marks in a "v"-shaped pattern. The blade shows fine grain under magnification, with a distinct wavy "hamon" delineating the cutting edge. It further shows a few small patches of oxidation, but no chips or other damage to the cutting edge. The weapon is mounted in a wood grip covered with white rayskin, missing its fabric laces, and featuring black metal caps with gilt decorations. The "tsuba" (handguard) is also absent, but a blackened brass habaki collar is present. The wakizashi is housed in a black lacquered wood scabbard, missing its decorative tip and a pocket that would have held a small utility knife. Despite the described losses, the blade remains a fine, hand-forged example.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipments are sent via USPS Priority, USPS International Priority, FedEx and DHL (for most overseas shipments) or FedEx Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature is always required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling and shipping charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. International shipments are invoiced by DIMENSIONAL weight, not the item weight. Please contact us for an estimate before bidding NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items may not be shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for shipments after receipt of payment due to the high volume of packages being shipped.

November 20, 2019 10:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000