Thanks to all for your replies. I've learned a lot. Yes Rick, I should invest in a book or two about Chinese weapons. I don't intend to buy more than one or two. If I spend money on books it kills my limited budget. But then I my lose by purchasing a bad piece. Its a catch 22 I guess. I'll also stay away from auctions located in China. I don't want to break the law or take any chances.
The sword the the local sword shop has, is exactly like the one in the auction. So if people responded well to the one in the auction I would go back and purchase it. Now I think he has one of the Newly created Chinese swords at his shop. I asked him about the cheap looking mounts verses the rather good blade. His answer was that they didn't spend much on the mounts for mass issue fighting weapons in time of war. I asked if I could take a picture and he got offended that I wasn't taking his word about the antiquity of the sword. I've learned through experience not to trust any dealer. A quote from one well known dealer, "all dealers B.S. from time to time." I've had tails spun for me, let me tell you. I get that deer in the headlight look in my eyes and they know they got me. I hear what I want to hear I guess. Then regret it later after I've had time to think.
So I guess this shows one how important it is to educate yourself and only trust your own knowledge. It takes so many years to develop, and so many mistakes. I've learned much since my first collecting experiences. Thanks to all here at the forum for accelerating the learning process.
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