I'm level 31 at the moment, and have 1.3 million septims - all legitimately earned. At the higher levels, the loot from Oblivion Gates becomes worth a lot more - especially if you can manage to carry all 2000+ weight out!
@ Vanchatron: regarding your original question, I prefer to go with a sword and shield, but it doesn't really matter. You can still block with a claymore, so I guess you've just got to decide what you prefer.