Japanese Sword Habaki Part Vintage 2

The Japanese Sword Habaki is a functional component of traditional Japanese swords, such as the katana, wakizashi, or tanto. This vintage piece serves as a collar fitted over the tang (nakago) at the base of the blade. Its primary purpose is to secure the blade within the scabbard (saya), ensuring a tight fit and preventing accidental movement. Typically crafted from copper or, less commonly, brass, a habaki may display wear consistent with age and prior use, such as patina or minor surface marks. Its construction may include file marks and evidence of hand-finishing, representative of traditional Japanese sword-making techniques. The habaki is essential for the proper mounting and functionality of military and civilian swords, often forming an integral part of the mounting (koshirae) set. This vintage example is suitable for collectors, restoration projects, or as a reference for those studying historical Japanese sword fittings and craftsmanship.