Talismanic inscriptions and decorations are very well known (blessing and protection)
In the case presented I do not believe in old rivet holes.
There is another option already mentionned above:
proof marks or factory/quality marks.
You have some brass or even gold fillings on Ottoman blades.
They are always connected to a workshop and demonstrate the skill of the smith and the quality of the blade.
Some of these marks including stamps became talismanic with time.
I think at the gurda marks for example.
Happy new year
Kubur
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