Aug 28, 2026

Is a Japanese sword without a certificate of authenticity really worthless?

Tags: antique, appreciation, authenticity, certificate, counterfeit, fake, forgery, gimei, hozon, nbthk, tokubetsu hozon

No, absolutely not! Discover the significance of certificates of authenticity for Japanese swords. This article explains how certificates impact value, what information they provide (like sword type, maker, and condition), and why some swords lack them. Learn how to assess...

Aug 28, 2026

How to Obtain a Japanese Sword Certificate: A Complete Guide

Tags: antique, appreciation, authenticity, bijutsutoken, buying guide, certificate, hozon, japanese sword, juyo, kanteisho, katana, nbthk, samurai sword, tokubetsu hozon, tokubetu juyo

Learn how to obtain a Japanese sword certificate, including NBTHK and NTHK. This guide covers types of certificates, the application process, understanding your certificate, costs, timelines, and legal aspects of ownership. Discover why certification is crucial for authentication, valuation, and...

Aug 28, 2026

NBTHK Kanteisho Types Explained: What Each Certificate Means

Tags: certificate, hozon, juyo, kicho, nbthk, tokubetsu hozon, tokubetsu kicho, tokubetu juyo

Understand NBTHK Kanteisho certificates. This guide demystifies each of the four types, explaining their authentication criteria and significance for Japanese swords. You'll learn their impact on value, gaining the knowledge to confidently interpret your nihonto's certification. 1. Understanding the NBTHK...

Aug 28, 2026

Are Kanteisho counterfeited?

Tags: appreciation, certificate, counterfeit, fake, kanteisho, nbthk, tozando

What is Kanteisho? Kanteisho for Japanese swords is a proof of the sword's authenticity. There are various sword appraisal organizations in Japan, each of which has its own appraisal standards and methods, and their certification is based on a thorough...