In very good condition, a rare Chikuzen no-Kami Nobuhide Oite Osaka Japanese Katana
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Nobuhide was a top raking (Sai-jo Saku) Japanese Blade Smith; his swords are very very rare, especially outside Japan. NBTHK certified blades of his often sell for £20,000 and much more.
This (our) sword blade is not NBTHK certified, but it very much looks authentic (not “Gimei”). However, our price includes the sword parts (including a rare Umabari knife, value £350+) and a silk carry bag. PLEASE NOTE: Our price is subject to change, for example up if we get it certified and / or polished, or down if we get it NBTHK appraised as Gimei. However, even if it were Gimei, the blade alone would still be worth £4,000 or more, such is the quality of the blade.
It is likely, given the style of the fittings and only one Mekugi-Ana tang peg hole, that all of the sword (except possibly the grip’s bindngs) is original.
Signed “Chikuzen no-Kami Nobuhide oite Osaka” and dated “June in the first year of Keio (1865)”.
The 30 7/8 inch nagasa (cutting edge section excluding habaki) highest quality blade (tiny spot of ware) is in very good condition with hamon very visible. Fittings (tsuka, tsuba, etc.) firm / tight; same / rayskin with a drynees related split one side, the ito / bindings possibly a later replacement as they are in such good condition. The 19C style saya / scabbard is in good condition; the sword sheathes and draws well. Silk bag with age / wear, but good.
Very well priced at £4500 for a Chikuzen Nobuhide in very good condition. Please quote item reference AJ07. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box 2233 110 x 13 x 13 (2.43).
