Antique Japanese Sword Tanto Signed by Aoe Ietsugu\u00a0with<\/span> NBTHK <\/span>\u00a0JUYO TOKEN<\/span>\u00a0Certificate<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u3010Description\u3011<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Summary<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0This blade was signed by Bitchu no Kuni ju Ietsugu (\u5099\u4e2d\u570b\u4f4f\u5bb6\u6b21), dated to the 2nd year of the Enbun era (1357, mid-Nanbokucho period), according to its NBTHK appraisal. Bitchu corresponds to today\u2019s Okayama Prefecture. Ietsugu was one of the most prominent swordsmiths of the Aoe school during the mid-Nanbokucho period.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Aoe school was founded by Yasutsugu (\u5b89\u6b21) during the late Heian period (Early 12th century), and it was located in today\u2019s Kurashiki town, Okayama prefecture. In Bitchu province, there were two prestigious schools during that time. One is Aoe school, and the other is Seno school, established by Noritaka (\u5247\u9ad8). Aoe school was prosperous from the late Heian to the late Nanbokucho period.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Aoe school is divided into three categories in Japanese sword terminology depending on the period. When the blade is from the late Heian-mid Kamakura period, it is called *Ko-Aoe (Old Mihara). It is called Chu Mihara(Middle Aoe) for those forged in the mid Kamakura-early Nanbokucho period. Finally, Sue-Aoe (Late Aoe) is used for the late Nanbokucho period or later. Based on the inscription on the tang, we believe it is categorized as Chu Aoe or Sue Aoe.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0One of the most famous figures in Aoe school is Moritsugu, who trained Sadatsugu, Tsuguie, and Tsunetsugu. These three swordsmiths were famous for Gobankaji (\u5fa1\u756a\u935b\u51b6). Gobankaji is a unique system created by the retired emperor Go-Toba (\u5f8c\u9ce5\u7fbd\u4e0a\u7687), who was enthusiastic about the Japanese sword-forging. He summoned twelve of the finest swordsmiths nationwide, and one swordsmith forged a blade for the emperor each month. Tsuguyoshi was the son of Tusuguie, who must have mastered superb craftsmanship.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Bitchu is located near the Chugoku Mountains, where iron sands, one of the essential materials for making Japanese swords, were abundant. Furthermore, BIZEN swordsmiths had close access to the Takahashi River, where they could find water and charcoal. This geological location contributed to the swordsmiths forging high-quality refined blades.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0When Aoe school flourished in the Nanbokucho period, Japan was tumultuous because the imperial court was split into two sides(south and north). There were many conflicts, and many Samurai were deployed. The Aoe school must have dedicated itself to forging high-quality blades for those Samurai who fought in battles. It is said that they were land owners and Samurai as well. They served the southern imperial court, which ended up losing the battle against the northern imperial court. After the southern side was lost, the school\u2019s property was ended. However, the descendants of a member of Aoe school established another school called Mizuta school in the Muromachi period, and lasted during the Edo period.<\/span><\/p>\n What is Tanto?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Japanese swords under the blade length of 30cm (11.6 inches) are generally called TANTO, and sometimes TSUBA(\u9354; Hand-Guard) is not attached to the TANTO. It was easy to carry and convenient for close combats.\u00a0\u00a0It was initially used as a supplemental weapon for Samurai on horseback, who used a pole weapon or long sword in the Kamaura-Muromachi period. Samurai aimed at an unprotected area of his enemy\u2019s armor with Tanto while having to fight with close distance.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0TANTO was named accordingly, depending on how you carry it, such as HUTOKORO-GATANA (\u61d0\u5200; Stomach-Sword) or KOSHI-GATANA(\u8170\u5200; Waist-Sword) or elsewise. TANTO was also a gift for a bride from her family in a traditional Japanese wedding, as it is believed that TANTO would be divine protection from evil power.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Appraisal<\/strong><\/p>\n \u00a0This blade is appraised as a<\/span> JUYO TOKEN<\/span><\/strong><\/span>\u00a0(\u91cd\u8981\u5200\u5263) issued by NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Touken Hozon Kyokai: \u65e5\u672c\u7f8e\u8853\u5200\u5263\u4fdd\u5b58\u5354\u4f1a). This authentication paper was only given to authentic Japanese swords, exceptionally well preserved and of high quality with artistic value. JUYO is one rank higher than Tokubetsu Hozon. To be eligible for a Juyo Token, it needs to be appraised as a Tokubetsu Hozon Token first. It is extremely rare for an antique Japanese sword to be appraised as JUYO TOKEN, and it is highly desirable among Japanese sword collectors.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n *Please keep in mind that there are a couple of areas with light rust on this blade. If you would like to know more about the detailed condition, please feel free to contact us.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n <\/p>\n \u3010Blade\u3011<\/span><\/strong> Hamon<\/strong>:\u00a0<\/span><\/span> Kissaki<\/strong>: <\/span>Kissaki is the tip\u00a0of the Japanese sword.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Nakago<\/strong><\/span>: Nakago is the tang of the Japanese sword.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Koshirae<\/strong>:<\/span> Koshirae is the mounting of the Japanese sword. There are several parts that consist of Koshirae such as Saya (Scabbard), Tsuka (Handle), Tsuba (Handguard).<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0All of the sword mountings of this Koshirae are decorated with the common motif: the Gosan-no-Kiri Mon (\u4e94\u4e09\u306e\u6850\u7d0b). It comes from the Kiri (\u6850, paulownia) pattern, and the Gosan-no-Kiri Mon is a popular and famous design for this flower pattern.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The Kiri (\u6850) pattern is generally composed of three standing straight inflorescences and three leaves. The number of blooming flowers at each inflorescence means the ranks of this design. The imperial family and national leaders back then once used this plant pattern. Today, this plant pattern is used as the crest of the Japanese Government. It is permitted to be used by ordinary households and is appreciated as their family crests. According to a tradition, the Houou (\u9cf3\u51f0, Fenghuang, a kind of sacred beast) rests its wings at the paulownia tree; therefore, it has come to be regarded as a sacred plant.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The surface of each sword mounting and metal fittings were finished with the Nanako-Ji (\u9b5a\u5b50\u5730) technique. By hitting with the Nanako-Ji Tagane (\u9b5a\u5b50\u5730\u93e8, chisel used for this technique), delicate fish egg-shaped protrusions are made on the surface of the metal. This process is often seen and is one of the elements that add gorgeousness to the appearance of metalworks.<\/span><\/p>\n Fuchi-Kashira<\/strong>: A pair of matching sword fittings that cover the upper and bottom parts of its sword hilt.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0This Fuchi-Kashira is finished with a glossy black lacquer. Habaki<\/strong><\/strong>\uff1aHabaki is the equipment to make the blade not touch its scabbard inside. It prevents the blade from getting rusty and chipped.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n This Habaki consists of the two parts. The outer part of the Habaki is made of 16K gold.<\/p>\n Kozuka<\/strong>:\u00a0Kozuka is a small knife stored in Kozuka Hitsu(groove of the sheath of the Japanese sword).<\/b><\/strong><\/p>\n Saya<\/strong>: <\/span>Saya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0This Saya is covered with black lacquer. Due to its high waterproof effect, lacquer has been used since ancient times in Asia. The blade of a Japanese sword is made of iron, and moisture is the greatest enemy of iron. For the purpose of carrying the blade without degrading it, people devised a method of coating the scabbard with lacquer. To prevent not only moisture but also rain and snow from penetrating the inside of the scabbard, it was necessary to apply multiple layers of lacquer. The Nushi (\u5857\u5e2b, lacquerers) was born precisely because advanced techniques were required to handle the complicated processes.<\/span><\/p>\n Authentication Paper<\/span><\/strong><\/strong>:\u00a0NBTHK JUYO TOKEN Certificate for the blade (No. 5641)<\/strong><\/p>\n NBTHK<\/a>, also known as Nihon Bijutsu Touken Hozon Kyokai (the Society for the Preservation of the Japan Art Sword), is one of the oldest Japanese sword appraising organizations in modern-day Japan. They authenticated the blade on July 10th in the 51st year of Showa (1976). They appraised it as JUYO TOKEN, the blade exceptionally worth preserving for Japanese society. The purchaser will receive this original certificate as well. We can also translate what is written into English and make a PDF file<\/a>\u00a0for your record if you request.<\/p>\n Registration Number<\/span><\/strong>: Tokyo 28558<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The Board of Education in Tokyo issued a registration paper for this sword. It is called Jyu Hou Token Rui Torokusho (\u9283\u7832\u5200\u5263\u985e\u767b\u9332\u8a3c). Bunkacho (The Agency for Cultural Affairs) acknowledges a Japanese sword with this paper as a work of art. \u3010About us\u3011<\/strong> \u3010Japanese Sword& Export Process<\/strong>\u3011 Each Japanese sword is registered under the Agency for Cultural Affairs and the Board of Education in Japan. They issue a registration paper for each Japanese sword for its owner in Japan to legally possess it. The Japanese sword with its registration paper means it was traditionally hand-forged in Japan.<\/p>\n To legally export the sword from Japan to other countries, we will have to apply for its permit to the Agency for Cultural Affairs(Bunkacho) and return the original registration paper to the Board of Education. It normally takes around\u00a02-4 weeks<\/strong>\u00a0to receive this permit after submitting required documents. And we would like you to expect at least\u00a01-1.5 months<\/strong>\u00a0for your order to arrive at your given address after you ordered. For more detailed info, please\u00a0click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n It is allowed for residents in Japan to own authentic Japanese swords without a special license as long as they come with registration papers. Please feel free to contact us if you are a resident of Japan, whether temporarily or permanently. We will also assist you when you leave Japan and need to obtain the export permit.<\/p>\n \u3010Payment Method\u3011<\/strong> * If the amount is above 1 million JPY, Stripe or wire transfer will be the only options for payment.<\/p>\n \u3010Shipping\u3011<\/strong> We normally ship by\u00a0EMS<\/strong>(Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post.\u00a0We will send you a tracking number for your order as soon as we hand it to the post office. We will put 100 % insurance on the shipping document without any extra charge. Based on the total amount, there might be a duty tax or other fee for you to pay, depending on the countries. We use package cushioning to protect the item and put it in a PVC pipe, which is one of the most secure packages because of its durability.<\/p>\n It will normally takes 5-14 days for the item to arrive at your given address after we dispatch it. Time of delivery is estimated as accurately as possible by the carrier but does not take into account any delays beyond our control such as by inclement weather, post office holiday seasons.<\/p>\n * If you live in Australia and like to purchase an authentic Japanese sword, please click\u00a0here\u00a0<\/a>to know the detail.<\/strong><\/p>\n * If you live in the UK and like to purchase an authentic Japanese sword, please contact us first and click\u00a0here\u00a0<\/a>to know the detail.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u3010Review\u3011<\/strong> \u3010How to make sure the condition\u3011<\/strong> \u3010How To Contact Us\u3011<\/strong> \u3010The Art of Nihonto (Japanese Sword)<\/strong>\u3011 \u3010A Guide to Japanese Sword Maintenance<\/strong>\u3011![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/bitchu_OCMOJ_20240301.jpg\")
\u00a0![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/bitchu_JMAP_20240301.jpg\")
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\nCutting Edge Length (Nagasa)<\/span>: 27.3 cm (10.7 inches)<\/strong><\/span>
\nCurvature (Sori)<\/b>: 0 <\/strong>cm (0 inches)\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/toushin-8.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-8-scaled.jpg\")
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/toushin_saya-9.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-9-scaled.jpg\")
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\nThe crystalline structure which forms along the cutting edge of a blade as a result of the hardening process.<\/strong>
\nJimon (Jihada)<\/span><\/strong>:<\/span>
\nVisible steel surface pattern created by folding and hammering during forging process.<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/katana-6.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-6.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/katana3.jpg\")
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hamon-7.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-7-scaled.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hamon2-7.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-7-scaled.jpg\")
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hada-7.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-7-scaled.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hada2-7.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-7-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/hasaki-5.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-5-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/nakago-7.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-7-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/tuba_up-scaled.jpg\")
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Urushi lacquer is a traditional Japanese natural lacquer made from the sap of the urushi<\/em> tree. It has been used in Japan for centuries for its deep luster, durability, and resistance to moisture, and it develops a richer sheen and character as it ages.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/tuka3-5.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-5-scaled.jpg\")
\nTsuka and Menuki<\/strong>: Tsuka is the handle of the Japanese sword and Menuki is its decoration.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/tuka-5.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-5-scaled.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/tuka2-5.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-5.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/habaki-2.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-2-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/kozuka-2.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-2-scaled.jpg\")
\u00a0![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/kozuka2-2.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-2-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/saya-5.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-5-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/kantei-6.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-6-scaled.jpg\")
\u00a0![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/syomen-1.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-1-scaled.jpg\")
\u00a0![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/syomen2-1.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-1-scaled.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0The sword needs to be traditionally hand-forged and made of Tamahagane carbon steel to be registered in the system. With this paper, its owner in Japan can legally own an authentic Japanese sword. Based on this registration number, we will apply for its export permit.
\n\u00a0This paper will need to be returned to the board of education when the sword is being shipped abroad, but you can receive a copy of it. An English translation of this registration paper is available on request.<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/touroku-7.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-7-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/top-6.jpg-\u306e\u30b3\u30d4\u30fc-6-scaled.jpg\")
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\nSamurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords\/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/5623eabfdde4147c0ecdc704028c6ecd.jpg\")
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\nThe Japanese swords we deal with are hand-forged edged swords made in Japan. It was made from the traditional carbon steel called\u00a0TAMAHAGANE(\u7389\u92fc)<\/a>. Samurai Museum is familiar with the proper legal procedure for an antique\/ authentic Japanese sword to be exported from Japan. We have sent more than 1000 Japanese swords for the past few years (\uff5e2025) to amazing owners who appreciate its historical value.<\/p>\n
\nWe accept payment through\u00a0Stripe\u00a0<\/strong>(Credit card),\u00a0PayPal<\/strong>, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don\u2019t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. After confirming your payment, we will apply for an export permit. You may either pay in\u00a0JPY, USD, AUD, CAD,EUR CHF\u00a0<\/strong>or\u00a0GBP<\/strong>. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/SSL_payment_1222-01-1.jpg\")
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\nWe have shipped authentic Japanese swords to the\u00a0USA, Canada, Mexico, Germany , Belgium, France, Finland,\u00a0UK<\/a>,\u00a0Hong Kong,\u00a0Australia<\/a><\/strong>. If you don\u2019t live in these countries and like to order, please contact us first before making a purchase. We offer\u00a0Free International Shipping<\/strong>\u00a0as long as we can send antique Japanese swords by EMS.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/48026a8af882b8fafae180fa48fbd5f4.jpg\")
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\nHere is one of the reviews we received from a customer who purchased an authentic Japanese sword from us.\u00a0For more reviews, please click here.<\/strong><\/a>
\n\u201cMy experience overall with the whole process was wonderful. I had many questions about the history and process to purchase these treasures. All my questions were answered very timely and complete. The staff is very knowledgeable and very well versed if any questions do arise.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nPlease keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.\u00a0It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of a sword. and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.<\/p>\n
\nPlease contact us through email, Facebook Messenger or Live Chat if you have any questions. You can find each icon on the right side of the website. Please click one of them to reach us. We will reply to you within 1-2 business days.<\/p>\n
\nSamurai\u2019s history is a profound, eloquent legacy of ancient Japanese warriors in which millions of people worldwide are being fascinated. If you like to find out the art of Nihonto,\u00a0please click here.<\/a><\/p>\n
\nAfter acquiring an genuine Japanese sword, it is also important to know how to take good care of it. Here is the special video for you. Mr. Paul Martin, Japanese sword expert, shows you how to give proper maintenance to your sword. By mastering how to clean the Japanese sword, its aesthetic beauty will last forever.<\/p>\n