Legendary 1,000-Year-Old Katana Still Looks as Flawless as When It Was First Constructed

Known as theMikazuki Munechika, this special sword was crafted by the legendary Sanjo Munechika.

He was considered one of Japans most skilled swordsmiths in the Heian period (794 to 1185 CE).

So, why is this katana named crescent moon?

It has to do with a motif found on the blade.

The process of creating a katana requires that the sword get very hot and then rapidly cools.

Calledquenchingandtempering, this technique strengthens and hardens the steel.

In doing so, it causes there to be unique markings on the material.

The Mikazuki Munechika has symbols that look like halved moons.

During its long history, the katana has been in the possession of some powerful people.

The Mikazuki Munechika katana is one of Japan’s most renowned swords.

Part of what makes it so popular is that it is in remarkable shape after 1,000 years.