This is an important sword made by Yasutugu. This Yasutsugu is known as the San-dai or third generation of the Yasutsugu lineage. this group of swords were very renowned and were allowed to sign with the Hollyhock crest. The 3rd generations work in general is not flashy but more serene with a deep elegance.  The word that the Japanese people use for things of this nature is “Shibui” (Deep high quality not flashy). This particular sword is flawless and shows all the beautiful traits from the school. A rather long sword that is very stout and strong looking and feeling when in hand. Please take a very good look at all the pictures to capture all the fine details within the temper line. The Ji is also exquisite and finally forged. This sword comes in original mounts that have never been altered, or changed. The scabbard is wrapped in a beautiful leather that has been lacquered. It has a hidden compartment that is quite unique and not commonly found. It was said that in these compartments gold could be stored or even important Hidden documents. In any case it’s unique and the compartment is long and shows skill in the scabbard maker. It is also in good shape for such an old scabbard dating back a few hundred years. The handle is original down to it’s Silk wrapping. The iron fittings appear to be all made by the same hand there is a signature on the edge of the sword guard that is the same signature that is located on the fuchi. It reads “Ikkin (一琴)”. this leads me to conclude that all the fittings we’re made by the same person. Signatures along the rim of a sore guard also it is quite unique. The mounts themselves have very high level Tokubetsu Hozon papers. We don’t commonly see papers on mounts, but this sword has them. This adds a lot to the historic value to this piece. The overall condition of the amounts and the blade are wonderful. Both the blade and amounts come with Tokubetsu Hozon papers from the sword Museum in Japan NBTHK. Also with this sword there is a shirasaya or storage mount protect the sword for years to come. This is a beautiful antique Japanese sword that should be cherished for many years to come.