"Over 10,000 objects were unearthed, including 10 tons of copper coins (2 millions pieces" This is what is known as archaeological math. There were 10,000 objects but coins don't count as objects worth counting. Look like melters to me. Export of coins is not allowed so the other choice is a museum (gift shop?).
Are you referring to the second photo? I can't tell if those are ancient or modern, but they would string the coins in groups (up to 300 I think - maybe a thousand. I can't remember off the top of my head) through the center hole
Wow, now I'm really not interested in picking-up one of those Chinese washers!! (they're now a dime a dozen!!)
I should have used the reply feature and smilies. When Doug said "smelters" I was meaning that's what they would become after melting. Sorry for the confusion. I must admit that is a pretty practical was of carrying them though.