Chinese sword: real or fake?

[josh stout]

Originally Posted by Bill Marsh

Sure Josh. Here are examples on some of my dao and a jian. The dao have old or original fittings. The jian has Long Quan fittings that are careful copies of the originals.

All these pieces were either bought from Phillip Tom or recommended by him.

He told me there were periods where the holes were punched, like the half-moon or drilled. I really can't remember which is better or if there really is a huge difference in the age or quality. It seems he liked the half-moon. But it may also be that he liked the half-moon for a particular period. I wish I could be more certain.

Ah, now I see what you mean. Thank you. I think you are correct that the round holes are later, but I think you would need a few things to go on before giving a date.
Josh