There are two types of sword owners-
the ones who collect pretty things, and occasionally do practice cuts in between fondling their stuff.
The ones who use their sword as a machete, thrower, camp Knife, and log splitter.
I am of the second group. I have seen a shiny AK47. I think it costed 3X as much as a coated model. If the looks are so important then it might be worth the money.