Showa Katana signed “Kaneshige saku” (兼重作) (SW1901)

Period: Showa era, c. 1930s–1940s Signature (mei): 兼重作 — Kaneshige saku (“made by Kaneshige”) on the nakago (one mekugi-ana, sujikai yasurime). Blade (nagasa): 25.75 in. (short katana / long wakizashi range) Mounts: Mixed civilian-style koshirae; black lacquer saya with age and handling wear; copper habaki; iron/soft-metal tsuba; floral-engraved fuchi; tsuka wrapped in brown ito over same.  Description: Showa-period signed blade by a smith using the name Kaneshige. The sword has healthy curvature and a medium kissaki. Surface shows scattered pitting and an older, uneven polish that makes the hamon and hada subdued in areas; temper is visible in hand under raking light. Nakago patina is correct for age and the signature cuts are consistent with Showa-era work.  Condition: Good as-found overall for age. Blade with scattered pits/oxidation, scratches, and cloudy older polish; mounts worn but complete enough for display. No edge chips noted in a quick inspection; sold as is and unpolished. A professional polish would greatly improve the visibility of the hamon/hada; buyers should assume no guarantees on papering without further examination.  Notes: Multiple smiths signed Kaneshige in the Showa period. This example is offered as a signed Showa-era sword; we make no representation as to specific smith school without shinsa. Traditional vs. non-traditional manufacture is undetermined from the present polish.  Measurements (known): • Nagasa: 25.75” (measured to the munemachi) • Nakago: one mekugi-ana; diagonal file marks (sujikai)  Included: sword, koshirae as shown.