appraisal for antique Japanese Swords

AW says:

(Readers, please note, that this appraisal is based on a larger series of pictures of which only 2 are posted here.)

What you have is a daisho, which is a matched pair of weapons used by the Japanese Warriors of of upper social status. The longer sword is a katana and the shorter is a wakizahi or shoto.

The larger sword would be used on the battlefield, while the smaller would be used for close quarters combat.

The scabbards and hilts are made of Ivory.


Date range: (1750-1820s)

Retail value: $12,000 - $20,000, I'm basing a premium on the fact that these are a matched pair which is very rare. The price could vary greatly depending on the amount of damage which may not be discernible from pictures, such as integrity of the ivory, amount of rust etc.


Wholesale value: N/A I'm not going to post a wholesale or a quick sale value on these, as there is no need to sell them like that. In my opinion, these are museum quality items.
(The midrange price you could expect to achieve at a well advertised live auction. The price that is most often realized)


Quick sale value:
The price your likely to get if you have to sell your item immediately and your prospective customer is aware of this.

Common trade terminology: Japanese katana swords, daisho

Slang terms: N/A

Selling tips: The only way to sell these is through a well established auction house such as Sotheby's.


Care and storage tips: I would have these insured and don't put your fingers on the blades, the oil from skin contact can cause damage to antique sword blades.

To find out how to get your own 100% guaranteed appraisal just here.

If you like this site, you may be interested in checking out my new podcast, The AuctionWally Show