That's a beautiful sword, one of the nicest that I've seen.
The national ruler was often of little or no importance to many nomadic tribesman, while a man's weapon would likely be among his most prized possesions, and often a badge of honor, rank or status as well.
The coins in this case may well just be another indicator of a superior weapon, as it appears to be.
I wouldn't be surprised if all of the spacers were originally coins and even the scabbard/sheath, which appears to be either silver or well done silvered brass.
Mike
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