NihontoWatchExperience the exceptional craftsmanship of this katana, forged by the skilled swordsmith Masachika , who resided in Iwama, Jōshū . The sword was crafted on an auspicious day in August 1969 , during the Shōwa era. Masachika’s mastery in traditional Japanese sword-making techniques is reflected in every aspect of this blade, from the balance of the sword to the aesthetic beauty of the hamon and the fittings. Specifications Signature : Jōshū Iwama jū Masachika saku Shōwa yonjūyonnen hachigatsu hi ( August 1969) Blade Length (刃長): 63.1 cm Sori (反り - Blade Curvature): 1.3 cm Width at Base (元幅): 32.0 mm Thickness at Base (元重): 7.0 mm Width at Tip (先幅): 21.3 mm Thickness at Tip (先重): 4.3 mm Overall Length with Mountings (拵全長): 103.2 cm Blade Characteristics The katana features a finely detailed blade with a prominent choji-ba hamon , known for its clove-like patterns that give the blade both elegance and strength. The masame hada steel grain pattern, running in a straight grain along the blade, ensures excellent edge performance while showcasing the swordsmith’s refined technique. Every element of the blade design reflects traditional sword-making at its finest. Signature (Mei) Face Side: 常州岩間住正近作 (Jōshū Iwama jū Masachika saku) Reverse Side: 昭和四十四年八月日 (Made on an auspicious day in August 1969, Shōwa 44) Koshirae (拵え - Mountings) The sword is housed in a sturdy and beautifully crafted koshirae , designed to complement the blade’s functionality and traditional aesthetic. The fittings are robust, providing the perfect balance for practical use while enhancing the visual appeal of the katana. Historical Context The swordsmith Masachika , whose full mei reads Jōshū Iwama jū Masachika saku, was active during the Shōwa period (1926-1989). He worked primarily in the Hitachi province and was particularly active between 1968 and 1989 . Masachika produced swords known for their fine craftsmanship during the later years of traditional sword-making in Japan, as swordsmiths continued
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Hitachi · around 1926-1989
Shōwa to the present: destruction and revival
The twentieth century nearly killed the craft twice: wartime distortion, then the occupation ban. The NBTHK’s founding in 1948 and licensed forging from 1953 rebuilt the sword as an art, crowned by Living National Treasures and the mukansa rank.
30-day money-back guarantee from receipt; items must be unused, complete, in original packaging. Sale items Final Sale. Antique swords non-returnable (Japanese export law). Damage reported within 72 hours. Customer pays return shipping unless seller error/defect. Refunds within 14 days of inspection.