Swords signed with phrases like “Kitau Kore” which translates to “Forged this” followed by the smith’s name often indicate a traditional or semi-traditional swordsmith working during the Wartime Gendaito period which meant the blades built during this time were for battle! Sadahiro (Takai Shiro, or Igami Sadahiro) born in 1925 was a young swordsmith during the WWII era but very skilled. He was known to have worked in earlier and later eras as well. This Blade dates to late 1943/early 1944. The overall condition on this sword is very good. The blade exhibits a nice and defined temper line. No nicks to the sharp cutting edge evident. The Shirasaya “Scabbard” has seen better days with the end of the leather cover present but still solid overall. Nice forged iron tsuba that appears to have age. Tsuka is in good condition with all of the original ray skin present and bounded wrap. Nice collector’s sword with history! |||| MEASUREMENTS: Scabbard Length: Approx. 27 in. | Blade Length (Nagasa - guard to tip): Approx. 25 in. | Total Blade Length (Tip to tang heel): Approx. 33.25 in. *Sourced from a reputable and trustworthy private collection*