Gassan SadaKatsu Gendaito Forged in Commemoration of the Birth of The Crown Prince (Current Emperor) of Japan

Signature: Osaka Ju Nin Showa 8, 12th Moon.  Gassan Sadakatsu Kin Saku.  Ko Taishiden kaGyo Tan Jo Ki Nen.  Made in December 1933 by Gassan Sadakatsu of Osaka, in commemoration of the birth of his Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Japan.  With NBTHK Papers.
Year Made: 1933
Forging Pattern: Ayasugi
Tempering Pattern: Suguha in very fine ko-nie
Dimensions:  Blade Length:  27.1 inchesNakago: 7.25 inches 7 mm thick and 30 mm wide at Hamachi
Mountings:  Shirasaya, solid silver habaki and double presentation boxes.
Overall Condition: Excellent.  An very rare and beautiful Gassan SadaKatsu, perhaps the best work I have seen from this smith.  This sword was forged to commemorate the birth of the current Emperor of Japan in Showa 8 (1933).  The polish is probably original, it comes with the original double presentation box with inscription by Gassan Sadakatsu describing the sword.  A flawless tour de force of Gassan School craftmanship.  Very elegant shape with a powerful proportions and the most consistent controlled forging I have seen in a Gassan sword. Truly one of the top 10 gendaitos I have seen.