Mumei Koto Katana in Shira Saya – Attributed to Mino Tradition (SW1955)

Period: Koto era, late Muromachi period (c. 1500s) Signature (mei): Mumei (unsigned) Blade (nagasa): 27 3/8 in. Mounts: In plain shira saya with a copper habaki  Description: A classic unsigned katana from the Koto era, attributed to the Mino tradition of the late Muromachi period. The blade measures 27 3/8” with a graceful curvature and two mekugi-ana, evidence of multiple remountings during its long service life. The hamon is an attractive irregular midare with gunome elements, visible throughout the length, and continues into the kissaki with a well-formed boshi.  The sugata, healthy proportions, and active hamon are consistent with Sue-koto Mino work of the 16th century. As is often the case with older swords, the blade was left unsigned (mumei), allowing attribution to be made by style and workmanship.  Condition: The blade is in a relatively bright polish that displays the hamon well, with only light scratches and handling marks present. No fatal flaws or major ware observed. The shira saya remains in excellent condition and provides proper long-term storage.  Measurements: • Nagasa: 27 3/8” • Nakago: two mekugi-ana, unsigned • Curvature: moderate sori  Collector Notes: An elegant Mumei Koto katana preserved in shira saya, with strong features pointing to the Mino school of the 1500s. A fine representative example of late Muromachi work and a worthy addition to any collection of early Japanese swords.