Wherein your humble scribe presents a new monster for Swords & Wizardry (Core Rules), the Coineater. Don’t read too much into the timing of this particular post.

Coineaters are man-sized humanoids with remora-like heads. They actively seek out individuals in possession of any quantity of coins greater than a handful and will follow them about while emitting an annoying high-pitched whine. This sound increases the chance of a wandering monster encounter to 3-in-6 per turn.

If the target of the coineater’s pursuit leaves a pile of his coins equal to approximately 1/3 of the gp value possessed in a small neat stack the coineater will devote its attention to devouring the previous metals and cease following the target. A coineater so appeased will not follow the same individual for a full year.

If attacked, or if not provided with appropriate tribute within 2d4 turns, a coineater will respond by latching onto the target with its vicious, rasping mouth and will begin sucking the unfortunate victim’s blood. A coineater will cease this blood drain immediately if the appropriate tribute is offered. Otherwise, it will continue to drink until the victim is dead. After the death of its victim the coineater will devour 50% of the target’s coins and then head off in pursuit of a new source of nourishment.

Coineater: HD 10; AC -1 [20]; Atk 1 bite (1d4); Move 15; Save 6; CL/XP 12/2000; Special: blood drain (1d6).