Hi Tim, 
 
Well, you now have a puppy worth over £100, and/or a wife who now knows what to get you at the next holiday.  It does suck.  My parents lost an *old* Navajo blanket the same way, before they clued in and put the treasures out of reach of little teethers. 
 
If you're desperate, maybe we can take up a collection to replace your treasures. 
 
Hi Jim, 
 
I've seen that  circle cross symbol cut into the sides of Chinese daos, and I'm waiting for Gav to come up with a reference.  I think they're an allusion to the "Coin swords" used as feng shui talismans (swords made out of old coins and red cord, to drive away whatever-it-is).   
 
Best, 
 
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