Regarding the Appraisal of Japanese Swords

Here we introduce authoritative appraisal organizations for Japanese swords.

1. The National Association for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords (NBTHK)

The Japan Art Sword Preservation Association was established in 1948 following a movement advocating for the preservation of Japanese swords as cultural assets, at a time when they faced confiscation as weapons after World War II.

A public interest incorporated foundation dedicated to the preservation, research, and promotion of Japanese swords and related art objects. It holds the highest authority both domestically and internationally as the representative institution responsible for preserving Japanese sword culture.

Main Appraisal Categories:

• Preserved Swords
• Specially Preserved Swords
• Important Swords
• Specially Important Swords
• Overwhelmingly reliable in the market
  
• Recognized by overseas collectors

2 Nihonto Preservation Society (NTHK)

The Japanese Sword Preservation Society began in the spring of 1910 when Takase Ukō published “Swords and History” at the Hazawa Bunko in Tokyo. Then, in October 1912, the Japanese Sword Preservation Society was founded with the purpose of preserving Japanese swords and conducting research on them.

A specified non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation, appraisal, and promotion of Japanese swords. It contributes to the transmission of sword culture and the cultivation of proper appreciation skills, supporting sword enthusiasts and researchers through specialized appraisal sessions and seminars.

• Preserved Swords
• Special Preservation Swords
• Precious Swords, etc.
• Fees are slightly lower than NBTHK
  
• Does not carry the same brand recognition overseas as NBTHK

3 Kurashiki Sword Museum Authentication Certificate

This is an authentication certificate for Japanese swords issued independently by the Kurashiki Sword Museum.
While differing in method and status from “authenticity certificates (such as those issued by NBTHK or NTHK),” it documents the sword's detailed characteristics and evaluation.

• Characteristics of Inscriptions and Sword Smiths
• Forging and construction of the jigane (base metal) and hamon (temper line)Evaluation based on over 150 detailed criteria
• Detailed microscopic images and more available via QR code

4 Tōensha

An organization established in 1965 that conducted appraisals and evaluations of Japanese swords and published books. Led by Mr. Kōsuke Murakami, it issued its own appraisal certificates for Japanese swords and sword fittings, evaluating them based on its own unique certification standards, particularly those for “Important Swords” and “Superior Works.”

Swords bearing Toen-sha certificates are now primarily recognized as antiques, serving as documents demonstrating historical value and quality.

The organization ceased operations following the death of its founder, Mr. Kosuke Murakami, in July 1978.

5. ORIGAMI

Origami in Japanese swords refers to
an old appraisal document detailing the sword's value, quality assessment, and price evaluation.

It is called “origami” because it was originally written on folded paper.

Certificates and valuation documents issued by the Honami family during the Edo and Meiji periods
These are called “origami.”

Origami-certified swords have long been considered high-value assets due to their high credibility and stable market prices.

Since the first Honami, Honami Myōhon, served as sword commissioner for Ashikaga Takauji, the Honami family has handled appraisal and polishing for generations, playing the role of producer for Japanese swords.

Famous origami issuers

Honami Koetsu

A representative appraiser of the Honami family.

Honami Kotsune

A renowned appraiser of the Edo period.

The Honami family served as official appraisers for the shogunate,
functioning as a sort of “official appraisal agency” of the time.

The Role of Authentication Certificates for Japanese Swords

① Verifying Authenticity

② Grading (Ranking)

③ Facilitating circulation

With an appraisal certificate:

•  Lowers the psychological barrier for buyers
  
•  Facilitates overseas sales
  
•  Enables auction listings

④ Establishes a price ceiling

Buyers perceive it as an investment asset

Enables an exit strategy for resale

⑤ Future asset verification

During inheritance, sale, or insurance enrollment
The appraisal certificate serves as proof of asset value.