Help Identifying the signature on a Wakizashi Sword

[vegasone]

Hello,
I am trying to identify the signature on a Wakizashi I own. I have uploaded some photos of the sword along with the signature. Any help is much appreciated.

Cheers,

Kevin

 

[Majestic]

駿河守国正

Suruganokami Kunimasa. Kunimasa is the name. Suruga is the location where he's affiliated with. Kami means "lord" or "governor". Its kind of an honorary title, often seen on swords.

 

[vegasone]

Thank you Majestic. When do you think he would have made this sword?

 

[Majestic]

Mid 17th century. Its impossible to tell exactly what year, but sometime after 1664, as that's when he was allowed to start using the "Lord" title. This assumes the sword/signature are legitimate - be aware there are a lot of fakes out there.
Your wakizashi was shortened from its original size.

 

[vegasone]

Thank you again.