Jim,
Interesting question. Symbolic analysis get pretty fuzzy pretty quickly, especially in an African & Islamic context. Cutting to "ownership", we recall that the Fung used to "drum & sticks" aka "cross & orb" to mark their possessions, including slaves. Camels were/are branded in accordance with tribal section and family identity. See Sudan Notes & Records, Hill, On Camel Brands SNR V.53, 1972 & Arkell, The History of Darfur 1200-17--AD, SNR v.32 #2, 1951,p.18
Tribal marks are also seen in rock pictures in Northern Darfur, Arkell, SNR V.29, 1937.
Of course the mark on your sword may not be to signify ownership, but could be a makers mark like seen on imported and locally made trade blades. Indeed, the blades appears (due to the fullers) to be a repurposed single edge blade. Although we have seen brass filled holes on blades as well.
The bottom line, "beats me"
Best,
Ed
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