What is this...

[Mossdancer]

What?:
Not saying it is one of these only a chance. Years ago I was told that Indian warriors used stick type devices to count their coup with. Each scalping or kill or battle would amount to a notch or decoration on the "Coup Stick" . I am sure you could look it up on Google. There were different types for tribes, importance, areas etc.
moss

[rarefish383]

I agree, Coup counting stick. I forget if it was in the book "Walking Dove" or another old western book. But, many tribes thought it took a much braver warrior to touch his enemy. Anybody could shoot them from far away, bow or rifle. Puts a whole new meaning to "Reach out and touch someone."