Firstly lets establish what I’m talking about. There are lots of reproduction and collectible “movie” swords about with stainless blades and plastic handles. Such as the Ninja swords, whilst “I” think they are worthless, they have their place to movie collectors. But that’s not what I’m on about… There is an absolute abundance of fake samurai sword on the market. Most claim to be fine examples from World War II. In reality the majority are made a few months ago in China. Here’s how to spot them... Firstly look at the price. A decent WWII Gunto will start at a couple of hundred quid, and go to a grand for a good hand made one. The Chinese fakes are typically sold for ridiculously low prices like £5, but check the location (China) and you will find they charge over £50 for postage. If it seems too good to be true that’s because it is. If the sword is £5 and is coming from china then look at a few details in the photo, take no notice of the description (often written in poor English) is all false. There are several dead giveaways. An original sword (made in Japan) even the "majority" of the WWII ones will have a traditionally bound handle, either with cord, or the traditional diamond patterned handle. Anything that is leather, or carved wood is deeply suspicious. The handle should be secured to the blade by a bamboo peg; rivets or screws are a big no no. The whole assembly relies on a blade collar (habaki) which slots onto the blade and fits in front of the hand guard. This is vital to a Japanese sword. However the fakes typically do not have this as the handle is riveted on - this is by far the biggest giveaway. Whilst ornate Japanese swords do exist, the Chinese fakes almost invariably are over decorated. The most obvious is "calligraphy" on the blade; these are usually just etched or stamped into the top section of the blade. Just an attempt to make it look more valuable. The most glaringly obvious thing is highly painted and / or carved handles and scabbards. Don’t walk - run ..away !. And don’t touch it. Beware too of things looking very old, but with Shiny polished blades. A genuine blade is steel, and will rust, and show signs of age. Even if the blade was a genuine original if its been polished up on a buffer, its worthless now anyway. On a more technical note, a genuine hand tempered blade, will have a dark wavy line along the length of the blade (hamon), the blade edge should be a noticeably different color, usually lighter and duller. If a line is present at all on the fake it will be a simple wavy line etched or engraved on. To sum up.... Beware "Genuine" antique swords selling for £5 Note the location (china) Check P & P (could be a fortune) Check for Traditional features (handle wrapping, blade collar, bamboo pegs) Beware of OVER fancy scabbards and carved handles. If you don’t know your subject then do some research before you bid. * * * *They don’t all sell for £5; * * * * I have spoken to people who have paid “thousands”. (For a worthless ornament). For Japanese collectors also be aware of fake netsuke and generally anything listed from china. Don’t let them get away with it. Dave.