This is an interesting and all complete Tanto from the Edo period. There is no name of the smiths but it's interesting as it is fully polished and it has the complete accessories. There are much decoration details that made it an object of art.
Nihonto collection will never be a mass hobbies (versus stamps collecting, watch collecting etc) for all owing to the high barriers to entry as well the difficulties to identify katana. Even the experts in Japan often disagree with the assessment and with the fake signatures even during the ancient days, there is still no scientific ways to evaluate the blade. Moreover, with the difficulties in importing and exporting has further hinders the hobby. Moreover, with the Chinese, Indonesian fakes katanas have further made it difficult.
Despite these challenges, one has to see it as a weapon with the unique feature of object of art. For me, one of the way is to find a reliable Sifu dealer, who can helped sourced and find authentic katana. Another way is to buy one basic real katana or tanto. Once you have one in your hands, one will be able to see fake from real. Of course, like any other hobby, one will need to read and participate in forum. In any forum, remember there are good members who is willing to teach as well as critical members ...
