Request For Help Translating Kanji

[coral99]

Hello,

I would like to request help translating the kanji on the tang from a Japanese sword. I included two pictures below that occur in sequence on the tang.

Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks very much for your continued help with my requests.

Matt

 

[Majestic]

Would be better to get some clearer photos. The one on the right says
昭和十八年一月 (Shōwa 18 nen ichi gatsu) = January, 1943
After that it is illegible to me.
The photo on the right says 山田囗囗 (Yamada-something something) Presumably the name of the smith.
I'd be interested to know if there are any other markings, or any stamps above the hole in the tang.

 

[coral99]

Thanks for the prompt reply and extra information, this is very helpful.

These are the only photos I have but will see if I can get more that are clearer.

Is it possible the signature on the left is related to a cutting test? I know Yamada was a family of testers, but a bit unsure if their work extended to Showa period. Also the kanji to the left of the date look a little similar to a cutting test. Any extra info you may glean is greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[Majestic]

No mate, the sword was made in 1943, and there were no cutting tests made after about 1850-1860.

 

[coral99]

Ok thank you, I greatly appreciate your input. This is very helpful and I will see if I can get better photos.