Despite such extravagant prices, we still see people hunting for these artifacts as precious collectibles. People want to hold them in their lounge, show them off to their filthy rich buddies, and admire them from afar.
But why? Why are these simple swinging sticks with a metal head priced so high? What makes up the most expensive Katana that we just saw earlier? Let’s find out!
1. Rarity
Economics 101. The crudest method of determining the price of an item is to see how easily available it is. Water? We have oceans filled! Diamonds? Eh, not so much.
While it is true that we have mountains filled with these diamonds, the entire process of extracting, cleaning, refining, and transporting them costs bone marrow. Hence, we have a ludicrous price for diamonds and place little to no value on water. Strange how humans work.
Taking this logic to the most expensive Katana, our very own Kamakura, it is clear why it costs 10 bone marrows. Hailing its origin from Late Kamakura period (early 14th century), it is likely that you won’t have a person making it two streets down the block today. Who needs a Katana when you can just shoot someone in the head?
Since the people who made it are resting in their graves, it is hard to replicate the original one. The rarity of the original piece with all its glorious past makes it the most expensive Katana in the world.
2. Design
“Come on”, I hear you say. Just because it’s rare doesn’t alone justify how expensive it is. I hear you and you are not wrong.
It’s not enough for something to just be rare. There’s only one of me but no one’s trying to pay me for just existing. No, it goes more than just existing. It’s also about the design.
Renowned for its exceptional design and excellence, this blade encapsulates the essence of the Kamakura period (1185-1333), known for its significant advancements in swordsmithing. The Katana has a blade intricately forged from Tamahagane steel, a meticulously layered composition of high and low carbon steel. It’ll cut you just by looking at it (ok, maybe not but you get the point).
The curvature of the blade, or sori, is masterfully crafted, allowing for swift and precise strikes. The unique hamon, the wavy pattern along the edge formed during the hardening process, adds both aesthetic beauty and functional integrity. The hilt, or tsuka, is wrapped in premium silk ito, providing a secure and comfortable grip. The guard, or tsuba, exhibits an exquisite design, often depicting symbolic motifs from nature or mythology, showcasing the artistry of the Kamakura period.
The saya, or scabbard, is made from high-quality wood and lacquered to perfection, protecting the blade while enhancing its visual appeal. The overall balance and weight distribution of the Kamakura katana contribute to its exceptional handling and maneuverability, making it a revered weapon among practitioners of the Japanese martial arts.
3. History
History is nice. It defines our lives and gives context to the world we live in. It is also nice to consider it when talking about why the most expensive Katana in the world is what it is.
The Kamakura period (1185–1333) in Japan marked a pivotal era in swordsmithing, giving rise to the iconic Kamakura Katana.
Swordsmiths like the renowned Masamune and Muramasa emerged during this era, contributing to the katana’s reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and sharpness. The Kamakura Katana even played a crucial role in shaping Japan’s martial history, witnessing conflicts like the Mongol invasions and influencing the development of Bushido, the samurai code.
Perhaps that also best explains the price tag on our Katana.
