What purpose is served by an Native American "coup stick"?

A Native American “coup stick” was used to touch an enemy and prove bravery. In the tradition known as counting coup, a warrior gained prestige by approaching an opponent and making physical contact, often with a hand, weapon, or specially decorated stick, then escaping without killing him.

The feat was especially associated with Plains Indigenous nations, including the Crow, Cheyenne, and Lakota. Different communities followed their own rules about which acts ranked highest, but touching a living enemy in battle while displaying extraordinary courage was widely honored. Striking or taking an enemy’s weapon could also count as a notable achievement.

A common mix-up is assuming that a coup stick was primarily a fighting weapon. Its deeper purpose was ceremonial and reputational: it recorded a warrior’s courage and could be decorated to commemorate the deed. Counting coup was not identical to winning by force; a daring touch could bring greater honor than killing an opponent.