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Last additions - Roman Military Equipment
w_belt_plate.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd century AD - W or Anchor endsThis Roman military belt plate is damaged.
It is missing the W-form end on the left.

Circa 2nd century AD.

References:
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 1986, page 216, # 5, Carnuntum Auxiliary fort of ala I Thracorum.
Fischer, fig. 123, from Neuberg a.d. Donau, Germany, circa 150-200 AD.
SCMar 30, 2020
opus_plates.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd/3rd century - Openwork formThese Roman military belt plates have opus interassile openwork.
Both are broken fragments.

They are 26 mm wide.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.
(Antonine to Severan eras.)

References:
Fischer, fig. 126, Neuburg/Zauschwitz type.
JRMES 16, page 297, # 18, Burgenae Serbia.
Aquincum Museum Visual, page 118, # 398.
Redzic, Viiminacium, # 452-455, type XVIIv6.
Morillo & Aurrecoechea, Roman Army in Hispania, page 173, # 8.
Nicolay, Armed Batavians, fig. 40, # 209.19.
1 commentsSCMar 30, 2020
wolf_hd_hanger.jpg
Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st century AD - Pelta form with Wolf's head loop.Small roman military equine/horse harness hanger.

circa 1st century AD.

References:
Wolf's head on larger, leaf-form, harness hanger:
Carnuntum Legionsadler, # 508, 1st century, Carnuntum Auxiliary cavalry ala fort.
SCMar 30, 2020
pr_sml_hanger.jpg
Equine - Harness Hangers - 1st/2nd century AD - Teardrop formThis pair of small hangers shows the diversity of Roman workmanship.

The left hand example is forged from a small rod or strip.
The loop consists of the coiled rod, the leaf of the rod hammered out to widen it.

The right hand example is cast with a rounded knob at the bottom,
and is much higher quality workmanship.

Both date to the 1st to early 2nd century AD.

Though likely small horse harness pendants, perhaps hung from a larger pendant,
some sources describe these are the terminals of apron straps.

References:
Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, # 419, belt apron-strap terminal.
Xantener Berichte 16, page 129, # 10, Sarmizegethusa Romania, equine harness sub-hanger.
Bishop, equine pendant type 8f.
Redziv, Viminacium, # 788, type XXVv3, belt strap end.
SCMar 30, 2020
silv_plate.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd/3rd century - Openwork arrowBroken Roman military belt plate.
This example is missing the finial at left and part of the openwork,
likely another arrow and small circle/globe.

It retains traces of silvering.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, type XVIIv6.
SCMar 30, 2020
small_d_buckle.jpg
Buckle - 3rd century - Dura-Europos styleRoman Dura Europos style buckle.

This bronze buckle retains the rust blob of the iron tongue.

Circa early to mid 3rd century AD.

References:
Dura Europos report 7, fig. 37, # 74, also bronze with iron tongue.
JRMES 17, fig. 10, # 4, type C2.
SCMar 30, 2020
tri_hangers.jpg
Belt Hanger - two Triangular style with loops.Plates with hanger loops from Roman military belts.

The left hand example has a solid plate while the right hand has an open-work plate.
Both were attached to the belt with one rivet.

Early/mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Kostromichev, Kherson Citadel, page 55, # 1.
Radzic, Vimiancium, # 689-690, type XXIIv2.
SCMar 30, 2020
trumpet_hanger.jpg
Belt Hanger - Celtic Trumpet style.Roman military belt plate with hanger loop.

I have found no parallel for this item.
However, it is clearly a belt plate with hanger loop similar to the other items in this galley.

It appears to be in the Celtic Trumpet style which flourished from mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD,
which is contemporary with the other hanger plates.
SCMar 30, 2020
open_plate.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd/3rd century - Openwork scrollingHalf of a Roman military belt plate.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Fischer, fig. 130.
Appels & Laycock, AA8.25.
SCMar 30, 2020
open_plates.jpg
Belt Plates - 2nd/3rd century - Openwork scrollingThe ends (approximately 1/3) of Roman military belt plates.
These plates have ornate ends and rounded, Celtic-style openwork.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Fischer, fig. 123, Neugerb a.d. Donau, Germany.
UGC 1, Viminacium grave # 201, mid-3rd century.
SCMar 30, 2020
pelta_plate.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd/3rd century - Openwork peltaformHalf, or slightly less, of a Roman military belt plate.
The design was probably the same, reverse, on the other side.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, # 479-480, type XVIIv6.
SCMar 30, 2020
pelta_plates.jpg
Equine - Harness Strap Decorations - 2nd/3rd century AD Roman plates for equine/horse harness straps.
The upper plate (40 x 20 mm) is whole, the lower plate is broken in half but of an almost identical design.

These plates likely did nothing but decorate the harness straps or reins.

2nd to 3rd century AD.
(Especially Antonine to Severan eras.)

References:
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 2005, page 174, # 27, Carnuntum Auxlliary cavalli ala fort, circa 100-150 AD.
Gladius XXII, # 97, France, horse harness strap appliqué.

SCMar 30, 2020
de_buckle.jpg
Buckle - 2nd/3rd century - Osterbrucken styleRoman military belt buckle, Osterbrucken style.

This buckle was attached to a belt plate with a piece of sheet metal passed through the rectangular loop,
and folded over instead of with rivets. the piece of sheet metal itself was riveted to the rectangular belt plate
(neither shown here).

2nd to early/mid 3rd century AD.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, # 9a, type IIIv1.
JRMES 17, page 141, type A1.
UGC 1, Viminacium, grave # 201.
Carnuntum grave # 174B.
Fischer, fig. 125, type Neuburg-Zauschwitz.
SCMar 30, 2020
diamond_hanger.jpg
Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st/3rd century AD - Rhomboid formRoman military equine/horse harness hanger.
The bottom portion of this hanger is broken and missing.

1st to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Xantener Berichte 16, page 129, # 10, Sarmizegethusa Romania, circa 101-105 AD.
Dura Europos report 7, page 92, # 233-238, mid-3rd century.
Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, # 616, 1st century.
Carnuntum Legionsadler, # 517.
Ivcevic, Salona, fig. II, # 8, circa 150-300 AD.
Bishop type 11.
SCMar 30, 2020
dog_hanger.jpg
Belt Hanger - Hunting Dog style.Roman military belt plate with hanger loop.

The openwork plate was attached to the belt with two cast rivets.
The loop hung below the belt and supported a small object like a purse or knife.

23 x 29 mm.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
I have not found any exact parallels of this item, however it is clearly related to the Dog & Hare style belt plates for which:
Dura Europos report 7, page 81, # 77, also at Lauriacum.
Appels & Laycock, AA8.12-13.
SCMar 30, 2020
enam_plate.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd century AD - Enameled rectangle with delta endsRoman military belt plate, with enamel inlay panels.

17 x 50 mm.

Mid to late 2nd century AD.

References:
Roman Apulum, VIII/4, circa 165 - 265 AD.
Gladius XXII, # 93, from Montady France, late 2nd to early 3rd century AD.
SCMar 30, 2020
eye_hanger.jpg
Belt Hanger - "Eye" design.Roman military belt hanger plate, with eye or kidney design.

The upper portion was attached to the belt with two rivets, now missing.
The semi-circular loop at the bottom was to suspend a small item from the belt,
such as a purse or knife.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.
(Antonine to Severan eras.)

References:
Kostromichev, Citadel Belt Fittings, fig. 5, # 3, from Nove, Ukraine.
SCMar 30, 2020
snaffle_bits.jpg
Equine - pair of iron Snaffle BitsSnaffle bits were used to control a horse. The bit was placed in the horse's mouth.
The reins were attached to the two loops which protruded from the sides of the horse's mouth.

Iron snaffle bits like this are very hard to date with any certainty.
They can be found from the pre-Roman Celtic era to the 16th century!

References:

Exact parallels can be seen in Junkelmann, Die Reiter Roms v. III, page 19, fig. 6 (from Roman forts in Wurttemberg) and in Dixon & Southern, The Roman Cavalry, fig. 31 (from the Roman fort of Hod Hill).

However, exact parallels can also be seen in Clark's Museum of London: The Medieval Horse and its Equipment, as type II/A, dated to the 14th century AD.
SCMar 29, 2020
h_end_1.jpg
Equine - Harness Strap End - wide type Strap end from Roman military equine/horse harness strap.
They were used to weight down the end of the strap.

With traces of niello inlay vegetal-style decoration.

1st century AD.
(Especially Augustan to Claudian eras.)

References:
Bishop (1988) strap end type 6e.
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, # 688 + 690.
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 2005, page 128, # 11, mid-1st century AD, from fort of Batavian cavalry ala Netherlands.
JRMES 3, page 98, fig. 17.8, Longthorpe UK.
Mrav Zsolt, Roman Army along the Amber Road, fig. 14, # 3.
Radman-Livaja, Roman Military equipment from Teutoburgium (Dalj, Croatia), fig. 5, # 33 + 34.
SCMar 27, 2020
h_end_2.jpg
Equine - Harness Strap End - narrow type Strap end for a Roman military equine/horse harness strap.

Circa mid-1st to early 2nd century AD.

References:
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, # 691.
Bishop (1988) strap end type 8d.
SCMar 27, 2020
h_hanger_3.jpg
Equine - Harness Strap Loops - 1st century AD These items were pieces of Roman military equine/horse harnesses.

1st to early 2nd century AD.

The hinged item (the hinge or pivot can be seen in the side view) consists of a loop and a "hinged" part that can pivot, Bishop type 1h.

The small item has a knob at one end was is likely a broken strap terminal, Bishop, type 1c.

According to Ivcevic they were used one the leather reins.

References for this overall style of harness gear:
Xantener Berichte 16, page 129, # 12, from Sarmizegethusa Romania, circa 101-105 AD.
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 2005, page 120-121, 125 and 128, mid-1st century AD, from fort of Batavian cavalry ala in the Netherlands.
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 2005, page 168, # 4 + 6, circa 100-150 AD, auxiliary cavalry ala fort at Carnuntum.
Unarmed Cananafates, page 98, figure 4.33, # 12.
Ivcovic, Military Equipment from Gardun, fig. I, # 16-17.
Feugère, Gaule méridionale 19, fig. 16, # 133.
Gadzac, Harness from Roman Dacia, fig. VI, # 2-4 from Ulpia Traiana and Gherla.
SCMar 27, 2020
tri_hanger.jpg
Belt Hanger - Triangular style.This device was used on a Roman belt to hang an item.
The item, such as a purse or small knife, hung from the round button or knob on the bottom.
The triangular part was attached to the belt, likely to small hook or loop, though it may have been sewn on.

Such items may also have been used on horse harness straps to hang pendants from.
However, this example might not have been robust enough for harness use.

Circa 1st to mid-2nd century AD.

References:
Fernandez, Roman Equine Harness in Hispania, fig. 2, # 10-11.
Feugère, Gaule méridionale 19, fig. 15, # 116, Augustan era.
SCMar 27, 2020
enamel_circle.jpg
Equine - Harness Phalera - Millifiori Roman military equine/horse harness paler decoration.

Decorated with enamel and millefiori inlay.

Late 2nd to early 3rd century AD.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, # 525, type XIXv1.
1 commentsSCMar 26, 2020
arm_hook_2.jpg
Armour - Tie Loop - plain type from Corbridge- or Newstead-type Lorica SegmentataVertical fastener or Tie loop from Corbridge or Newstead-type Lorica Segmentata armour.
Plain design.

Mid-1st to mid-2nd century AD.

References:
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, fig. 5.6, 5.9, 5.10, 5.14, and 6.8.
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, type Gi, fig. 56, # 16 + 21.
SCMar 26, 2020
buckle_3.jpg
Buckle - 2nd century - Wide D

References:
Dura Europos report 7, fig. 37, # 53. That example is made of bone but is the same form, size and decoration.
Feugère, Gaule méridionale 19, fig. 16, # 135, 1st century AD.
Fort, Kembs-Cambete, fig. 8, # 49-51.
SCMar 26, 2020
buckle_plates.jpg
Armour - Hinged strap or buckle plates for Corbridge-type Lorica SegmentataThese two pieces are part of Corbridge-type Lorica Segmentata armour.

These hinged fittings are likely either broken parts of a hinged buckle or strap hinges.
Hinged buckles, like the one portrayed in the gallery, were used to fasten the breastplates together.
Strap-hinges were similar, consisting of two plates hinged together, but lacked the buckle.
They were used to attach the plain leather strap (with the holes) to the other breastplate.

The Corbridge-type is dated to the mid-1st to mid-2nd century AD,
especially the Claudian to Traianic/Hadrianic eras.

References:
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, hinged fittings, type Cii,
Top: fig. 23, # 8, 23, 32, 49, 52, etc. and fig. 24, # 78, 83 and 86.
Bottom: fig. 23, # 6, 17, 37, 61 and fig. 24, # 91-94.
SCMar 26, 2020
comp_buckle.jpg
Buckle - 1st century - Hinged compositeThis D-form buckle and fleur-de-lys tongue were separate finds/purchases but go together stylistically.

They were used on a sword (gladius) belt.

1st to 2nd century AD.

References:
JRMES 16, Page 296, # 3, 4, + 6, Burgenae Serbia.
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, tb. 17, # 298-304.
SCMar 26, 2020
pelta_hangers.jpg
Equine - Harness Decoration - PeltaformRoman military equine/horse harness decorations.

Mid-2nd to 3rd century,
sometimes found in 4th century contexts.

The top example is broken, only one rivet remains.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, # 602 + 606, type XXv2.
JRMES 7, page 18, type 6, Wange Belgium; page 73, fig. 7.5, Belgium; and page 108, figure 17, Burgoz Spain.
Militaria Sisciensia, # 527.
SCMar 26, 2020
arm_buckle_2.jpg
Armour - Buckle - for Breastplate from Kalkriese-type Lorica SegmentataArmour buckle for Lorica Segmentata armour.

On the Kalkriese type of Lorica Segmentata this type of buckle was used to fasten together breastplates.
It was attached to a long-is leather strap which was riveted to the breastplate.
This type of buckle was not used on the later Corbridge or Newstead types of Lorica Segmentata
(which used the hinged buckle and the turn key (respectively) to fasten their breastplates.

The Kalkriese type was used from Late 1st century BC to mid-1st century AD,
especially the Augustan to Tiberian eras.


References:
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, figures 4.1, 4.3 and 10.1.
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, type Ai, fig. 1, # 3, 20, 29, 30, etc.
Ivcevic, Roman Military Equipment from Gardun Croatia, fig. I, # 13-14.
SCMar 26, 2020
arm_frag_1.jpg
Armour - Lorica Segmentata fragmentsFragments of Lorica Segmentata armour.

The two largest pieces consist of iron fused to a bronze plate.
The four smaller pieces consist of iron fused to a bronze plate and also attached by a bronze rivet.

References:
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, type L, fig. 79, # 1 + 2; fig. 83, # 86-91.
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, fig. 100, from a grave in Insula 22.
SCMar 26, 2020
arm_frag_2.jpg
Armour - Lorica Segmentata fragments - washers/rovesThese fragments, each consist of a small bronze plate with a bronze rivet and bronze washer(s).
Several have iron staining on them from the armour plates.

They are leathering washers or leathering roves used on the strapping of Lorica Segmentata armour.

1st century AD +.

References:
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, Washer Roves, type Ki.
SCMar 26, 2020
arm_hinge.jpg
Armour - Lobate Hinge from Corbridge-type Lorica SegmentataThis bronze lobate-form hinge was used to fasten lorica segmentata shoulder plates together.

It was used on the Corbridge-type lorica segmentata. The earlier Kalkriese-type used a more-squared sub-lobate hinge while the later Newstead-type used a much larger hinge.

Traces of iron from the armour plate can be seen on the reverse.

Early/mid-1st to mid-2nd century AD.

References:
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, fig. 5.1, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6, 10.1.
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, type Fiv, fig. 48, # 15, 20, 40, 43, etc.
Ar Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, # 253.
Xantener Berichte 16, fig. 193, # 16, Serbia.
SCMar 26, 2020
arm_hook_1.jpg
Armour - Tie Loop for Corbridge- or Newstead-type Lorica SegmentataVertical fastener or Tie loop from Corbridge or Newstead-type Lorica Segmentata armour.

Mid-1st to mid-2nd century AD.

References:
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, fig. 5.6, 5.9, 5.10, 5.14, and 6.8.
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, type Gi, fig. 56, # 3-8, 12-15, + 19.
Xantener Berichte 16, fig. 193, # 18, Bugenae Serbia.
Feugère, Gaule Méridionale 19, fig. 21, # 206, circa 50-75 AD.
SCMar 26, 2020
belt_plate_with_spindle.jpg
Belt Plates - 2nd century AD - Rectangle with spindleThis belt plate is pictured elsewhere in this gallery.
However, this image shows type of axis or spindle that was often found in the gap-space in this type of belt plate.
Interestingly, the spindles were separate pieces and are often lost.

While the belt plate appears to be made of a copper-colored bronze, the spindle is made of brass / orichalcum. They would therefore have contrasted when new.

This spindle appears to be an unfinished product as some flashing was not trimmed from the side and it has some casting flaws that likely meant it was destined to be put back in the crucible.

The right hand image shows what they would have looked like together.

Mid- to late-2nd century.
(Antonine era, Marcomannic wars.)

References:
Similar rectangular plates with spindles can be seen in D'Amato and Sumner, page 100, from the Archaeological Museum of Constanta Romania on the Black Sea.
1 commentsSCMar 24, 2020
old_hook.jpg
Equine - Harness Strap Hook - large with three circlesThis hook device was attached to the end of a leather strap with three rivets.

It was likely used on the end of a horse harness strap and probably attached to a junction ring.

I know of no exact parallels though with the prominent circle designs it is similar to first century types.
SCMar 24, 2020
eq_hang_wide.jpg
Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st century AD - Winged formRoman military equine/horse harness hanger.

This wide heart-shaped, or wing form, design was very common.
The small knob on the bottom appears to be gilded.
The hook that was once on the top is missing.

1st century AD, especially Claudian to Neronian era,
used until early 2nd century.

References:
JRMES 7, page 47, #2.
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, # 439, 441, 454, 455.
(mid-1st century BC to mid-1st century AD)
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 2005, page 120, # 2, mid-1st century AD, fort of the Batavian cavalry.
Bishop (1988), hanger Type 7b.
SCMar 24, 2020
eq_round_open.jpg
Equine - Harness Junction Phalera - openwork with side loopsOpenwork (Roman opus interassile) equine/horse harness strap junction phalera.

This device was used to connect two straps. Hook-loops riveted to the ends of the leather straps passed through two external eyes.
Most of the internal decoration has broken off.

Mid-2nd to early 3rd century AD.

References:
Gazdac, Harness pieces from Dacia, pl. IV, # 6, from Potaissa, Romania.
(During this time Potaissa was a base camp for Legio VII Macedonica.)
Dura Europos report 7, page 69, fig. 34 and page 97, # 329.
SCMar 24, 2020
face_hanger.jpg
Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st/2nd century AD - Pelta shape with head design.Roman military equine/horse harness pelta-form hanger.

This hanger has a head moulded in the centre. Though described in Ad Arma! as a female head, the top knot, or peak of a Phrygian cap, makes it very likely that it is a head of the Goddess Cybele's consort Attis.

References:
The form:
Bishop, Cavalry Pendants, type 3c.
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 1986, page 215, #13-14, 2nd century, auxiliary fort of ala I Thracorum.
Redzic, Viminacium, #593-594, Type XXv1, circa 50-150 AD.

An exact parallel with the head can be found in:
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, #577.
SCMar 24, 2020
head_hanger.jpg
Equine - Harness Hanger - 2nd/3rd century AD- Tri-lobed form with silver appliqué.Roman military equine/horse harness hanger.

This tri-lobbed hanger once had three stamped silver rondels affixed to the front with a lead solder.
Most of one silver rondel remains. It shows the draped and cuirassed bust of a young man with short hair, looking slightly to the right.
The portrait looks Severan and might be of Caracalla or Geta.
The lead solder is visible beneath and it and through a hole.
Traces of the lead solder remain where the other two rondels were attached.

Such a highly decorated hanger would likely be part of a special kit - either from an officer or a cavalry unit's parade team.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
An example with the same form but not trace of the rondels was found at Aquileia.
Maurizio Buora, Militaria in Aquileia, 2001, table 1, # 11, dated mid-2nd to mid-3rd c.
SCMar 24, 2020
huge_amphora_end.jpg
Belt Strap End - 4th century - large Amphora type, hinged iiWhile this amphora-shaped strap end looks like the normal 4th century belt ends, it is very large and heavy.

It may be from something else such as a Balteus-like shoulder strap or simply from a very large belt.
The bottom knob appears to be a separate piece, either brass or gold-plated.

Likely 4th century.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, #945, Type XXIv1, circa 330-370s AD.
SCMar 24, 2020
belt_plate_1st_c.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd century AD - Enameled rectangleRoman military belt plate. This plate is large like first century plates but contains panels for enamel.

Some of the enamel remains can be seen in the close-up in the bottom right.

2nd century AD.

References:
Fischer, fig. 492, #2, Regensburg, Marcomannic Wars.
1 commentsSCMar 24, 2020
belt_plate_rect.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd century AD - Hollow-rectangle styleRoman military belt plate.

This may have had a separate axis or spindle in the centre. note the indentation on the rear of the short ends.

Mid to late 2nd century AD.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, # 445-446, Type XVIIv5.
D'Amato and Sumner, fig. 100, Constanta Romania Archaeological Museum.
(This museum has a set with 8 full plates, one full-sized plate with hanger loop, one smaller square with hanger loop and two frogs - likely for hanging a dagger).
SCMar 24, 2020
belt_plate_T.jpg
Belt Plate - 2nd/3rd century - Large T formRoman military belt mount.

This oddly-shaped belt plate is a fairly rare form likely found only along the middle Danube.

Late 2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, # 686-688, Type XXIIv1.
Militaria Sisciensia, #281-283.
SCMar 24, 2020
eq_hang_heart.jpg
Equine - Harness Hanger - 2nd century AD - Heart formRoman military equine/horse harness hanger. Heart shaped.

2nd to 3rd century AD.

References:
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 1986, page 215, #3. 3rd century, fort of ala 1 Thracorum.
SCMar 24, 2020
eq_hang_leaf.jpg
Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st/2nd century AD- Elongated heart/leaf formRoman military equine/horse hanger. Heart/leaf shaped with end knob.

1st to 2nd century AD.

References:
Carnuntum, Legionsadler, #510, 1st century, Carnuntum auxiliary fort.
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 1986, page 215, # 3. 2nd century, fort of ala 1 Thracorum.
SCMar 24, 2020
Photo_on_2013-03-29_at_10_28_AM.jpg
Weapon - Spear Head - 2nd century AD - Germanic / MarcomannicGermanic iron spearhead.

This iron spear head has the rounded leaf form and high central ridge of a Germanic piece was found in Slovakia.

Dating is uncertain. It likely dates to the 1st or 2nd century AD.
It may have been a Marcomanni weapon.

It is 32 cm long (almost 13"), 5.2 cm at its widest, and has a shaft that held a 21 mm diameter wooden haft.
It had some of its edging restored (nicks were filled in with a black epoxy) by a previous owner, reportedly in the mid-20th century.

References:
JRMES 16, 2008, page 32, fig. 1 a+e, in Przeworsk culture (pre-Vandals), circa 1st c AD.
1 commentsSCMar 29, 2013
Photo_on_2013-03-29_at_10_28_AM_#2.jpg
Weapon - Javelin Head - Roman Auxiliary Iron lanzensptzen or iron javelin with unique waisted, or piriform, shape.

This type was used by some of Rome's auxiliary troops during the Marcomannic wars.
It was likely a non-functional, ceremonial weapon.
It is known as Manning type 3.

Mid-late 2nd century AD.
16.2 cm long, 4.5 cm wide at its widest, with a shaft that took a 9mm diameter wooden haft.

References:
Museum Lauriacum, page 42, I/A 8 (6 examples).
Carnuntum Jahrbuch 1986, page 212, # 9-13, from Carnuntum auxiliary fort of ala I Thracorum.
JRMES 17, 2016, page 217, fig. 2.
Fischer, page 340, fig. 499, #10.
SCMar 29, 2013
Leg_XIIII_brick.jpg
Roof Tile - Legio XIIIIA Roman roof tile, or brick, bearing "G XIIII".

This is part of the stamp LEG XIIII GMNI from Legio XIII Gemini.

This tile fragment was found in a ploughed farm field at Carnuntum.

Legio XIIII was stationed at Carnuntum from 118/119 to the 4th century AD.
Note that while some tiles have been found with XIV for 14, the vast majority use XIIII which was more common for 14 in the Imperial era.

2 commentsSCMar 29, 2013
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Roof Tile - LEGIO XXXA Roman roof tile, or brick, bearing "XXX VV".

This is part of the stamp LEG XXX VV from Legio XXX Ulpia Victrix.

This tile fragment was found by my son in a ploughed farm field at Carnuntum.

Legio XXX VV was never stationed at Carnuntum but was stationed at Brigetio (the next legionary base downstream on the Danube, now Komarom, Hungary) 103 - 118 AD.

Other tiles from Legio XXX VV have been found at Carnuntum, including one in the collection of R.F. Ertl, and thus tiles must have been shipped upriver from Brigetio to the larger base and town at Carnuntum.

2 commentsSCMar 29, 2013
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Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st century AD - large leaf formThis large harness hanger is made from bronze sheet. Instead of a terminal the end (bottom) is rolled.

It hung from the side of a cavalry horse harness.

It has faint traces of silvering.

Circa 1st century AD.

I have found no exact parallel.
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Equine - Harness Decoration - Round obverseThis large harness decoration, circa early- to mid-1st century AD has extensive incised decorations
which were once filled with niello (silver-oxide) decoration, the entire phalera was also once silvered.

It is often called a phalera though differes from the phalera worn on soldiers armour or belts.

The centre hole was for a lost attachment - possibly a silver medallion.

Flourished Tiberian to Flavian era,
in use until Hadrianic era.

References:
JRMES 17, page 47, 320, from Asciburgium Germany.
Romisches Museum Germany from Vindonissa and Colchester (believed to have belonged to Ala I Thracia attached to Legio XX).
Feugere, figure 187, #2 from Hod Hill UK dating to the Neronian era.
Bishop (1988) junction phalera obverse type 2b.
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Equine - Harness Decoration - Round reverseThe reverse of this early- to mid-1st century AD harness decoration shows the arrangement of loops and hinges.

The four small extensions forming a rough square in the middle of the back are the broken remnants of two long narrow vertical loops through which the leather harness passed, like a belt, horizontaly.

The two loops at the top are for attaching two leather straps via strap fasteners or junction loops.
This likely indicates that two cross straps met the main harness at this location.

At the bottom is a hinge with some metal still attached.
This was where a pendant, or hanger, likely trifid/trefoil design, hung below the phalera.

Flourished Claudian to Flavian era, used until Hadrianic era.

Bishop (1988) junction phalera reverse type 3a.
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Cavalry - Spurs - top viewsTop view of two Roman cavalry spurs, circa 1st century AD.

The upper spur has knob terminals, which would have buttoned into slits in leather straps to go over the boots.
It also has a hole (not visible in this image) for a separate iron prick. An example in the Romisches Museum Germany is from Sirmium.

The lower spur is a hackenspur which also had a separate iron prick inserted - remnants of which can still be seen.
The hook at the top and at the ends of the terminals gave the type its name and were used to help attached it to leather boot straps.

Examples in the Romisches Museum Germany are from Dangstetten, Vindonissa and Haltern.
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Cavalry - Spur - front viewFront view of a Roman cavalry hackenspur, circa 1st century AD.

The bronze spur had a separate iron prick inserted - remnants of which can still be seen.
The hook at the top gave the type its name and was used to help attached it over a boot.

Examples in the Romisches Museum Germany are from Dangstetten, Vindonissa and Haltern.
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Equine - Harness Junction RingThis ring links two straps allowing both to swing freely. Examples are known with three or four straps. Circa early- to mid-1st century AD. Parallels are known from the British Museum and the Romisches Museum Germany from Sirmium, Holtern and Vindonissa. Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 70, shows two examples from Rhingonheim and Kempten (UK).1 commentsSCMar 13, 2010
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Equine - Harness Strap SplitersIt is unclear exactly what these bronze items are.

The left hand item are probably part of Roman cavalry harness and was used to split one strap into three..

The right hand item might be the same with the addition of a hinge to hang a pendant from, or might have been part of a hinge for a box or item of furniture.

However, they look very similar to items described in Richborough V (plate XXXVI, # 155) as hinges for Lorica Segmentata amour plates.
The items in Richborough V are 45 x 45 mm whereas the items pictured here are approx. 80 x 55 mm.

Whether harness junction splinters or armour hinges these items are crudely formed and made from a thick sheet of metal.
They are likely items made to replace fancier lost or broken items.
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Equine - Snaffle Bit Cheek Piece Fragment - 3rd century ADThe fragment of a large round cheek piece from a Roman cavalry snaffle bit, circa 3rd century AD.

References:
Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 124, #4 from Thamusida Morocco and #6 from Dura Europos. The Dura example is dated to 200-250 AD. Similar ones have been found across the Roman empire.
Fischer, page 218, fig. 319.
Feugere, Militaria de Gaule Meridionale, fig. 17, # 137, 3rd c AD.
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Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st century AD - Lunula formRoman military equine/horse harness lunula pendant.

These hung from the leather harness straps on Roman horses.

1st century AD, flourished Augustan to Neronian era,
used until Hadrianic era.

References:
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugst) Switzerland, #539.
Ivcevic, Military Gear from Gardun (Croatia), pl. 2, # 11.
(During this time Gardun was the base of two cavalry alae, ala Claudia Nova and then ala Tugorum Frontoniana.)
A similar design is found in the Romisches Museum in Germany.
Bishop (1988), hanger type 9c.
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Equine - Harness Hanger - 1st century AD- Leaf formThis large thin (sheet-metal) bronze hanger is for an equestrian harness.

Circa 1st to early-2nd century AD.
39 x 81 mm.

This example is from near Sirmium.

References:
Romische Museum in Germany with finds from Vinonissa and Rheingonheim.
The Dura Europos report, volume 7, shows and example on page 92, #230 and 272 and cites another from South Shields.
Gladius XXII, #172, Amilhac France, circa 50 AD.
Ivcevic, Military Gear from Gardun (Croatia), tbl 1, # 8, mid-1st to 2nd c AD.
(During this time Gardun was the base of two cavalry alae, ala Claudia Nova and then ala Tugorum Frontoniana.)
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Belt Plate - 2nd/3rd century - Letter formRoman military belt plate with hanger.

This belt plate, in the form of a letter E with loop underneath, is part of a Roman military sword belt. The full set spelled out VTERE FELIX. The first E always has a loop under it for hanging a purse or knife.

It is dated from the mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.
Letter 28 mm tall, total 38 mm tall.

References:
Sasa Redzic, VTERE FELIX belt sets on the territory of Viminacium, Starinar LVIII (2008).
Redzic, Viminacium, #141-142.
Feugere cites a set found in a Roman tomb in Lyon dated to 197 AD in figure 151 of Weapons of the Romans.
Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 101, #1 these belts originate with the legions on the lower and middle Danube and in Dacia and therefore the Lyon tomb must have been of a Danubian legionary.
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Belt Plate - Large Hexagonal Shield-shapedI have not been able to exactly identify this heavy bronze plate.

It was fastened with four rivets, three of which remain.

The shape is similar to that of a 1st to 2nd century Germanic shield.

Miniature hexagonal shields, though made of thinner metal, have been found in Poland in early Przeworsk culture graves (1st century AD). The early Przeworsk culture is associated with the Vandals.
Reference: JRMES 16, page 128.
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Belt Strap Ends - not Apron terminals!I had previously listed these items as small pendants hung at the end of the straps found below the Legionnaries armour.
This is not correct!

They are actually pendants for the ends of military belts from the mid-2nd to the mid-3rd century AD.
These belts, which used a variety of different buckle styles, split into two towards their end.
Each of the two parts ended in one such hanger, thus each belt set used two.

References:

Two examples on left with small tip at bottom:
Militaria Sisciensia, # 318, 322 + 330.
Redzic, Viminacium, # 814 + 817, type XXVIv1.

Example second from right with plain bottom:
Militaria Sisciensia, # 320, 321, 323, 324, 327, 328, 333, 336 + 339.
Redzic, Viminacium, # 815, 820, 830, 835, type XXVIv1.
Caerleon Canabae, fig. 92, # 167.

The large example, with a concave back, is similar to a 1st century example from the Rhein at Mainz in Roman Military Equipment, 1st edition, figure 99, #1 but is quite large and may instead be a brass drawer handle from post-medieval furniture. However, one was also found in a Roman context at Rusovce near Bratislava, Kostromichev, Kherson necropolis, page 116, fig. 8, # 12.
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Belt Strap End - 4th century - large Amphora type, hingedStrap end from end of Roman military belt (cingulum).

Used on belts with propeller stiffeners.

Early-mid 4th century AD, especially 330-370s.
21 x 51 mm.

References:
Redzic, Viminacium, # 945, type XXXIv1.
Sommer type B.a.
Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 137, #7 from Aquileia, #9 from Sagvar Hunary, and #12 from Winchester UK.
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Equine - Harness Hanger - Open-work Heart designRoman equine/horse harness hanger.

This heavy bronze heart-shaped pendant hangs on a bronze sheet hanger which has been closed with an iron rivet.
The weight makes it likely that this is for a horse harness and not legionnaries armour or belt.

Circa mid-2nd to early 3rd century AD.
(Antonine to Severan era.)

References:
Caerleon Canabae, fig. 93, # 173.
A close parallel is found in the Dura Europos report, volume 7, figure 42, #227, circa 200-250 AD. Others are cited for Carnuntum, Zugmantel, and Stockstadt Germany.
JRMES 17, page 38, # 41, from Porolissum, Romania.
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Belt Plate - 2nd century AD - Celtic Trumpet styleRoman military belt plate.

Circa mid-2nd to early 3rd century AD.
(Antonine to Severan era.)
43 x 27 mm.

This style is often called "Celtic" or "Celtic trumpet" style but is known by archaeologists as the Klosterneuburg style after finds in that city just north of Vienna.

References:
JRMES 16, 2008, pg. 97, # 19, from Burgenae Serbia.
Bishop and Coulston's Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 88, #5, Antonine era, from Curle Newstead UK.
In the Carnuntum Museum in Bad Altenbach.
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Belt Plate - 3rd century AD - for BuckleThis Roman military belt plate was likely attached to the end of a belt, or possibly right before a buckle.

Mid-2nd to early 3rd century AD.
60 x 24 mm.

References:
A similar item is found in the Dura Europos report, volume 7, figure 38, #79-81, circa 200-250 AD, with others cited from Sarmizegethusa Romania, Schirendorf Germany and South Shields UK.
Fischer, fig. 493, #9, from Eining-Unterfeld, dated to Marcomannic Wars.
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Sword Baldric - Plates - "Eye" designTwo belt plates, both likely from the ends of belts given their assymetrical shape.

It is uncertain if they were for a waist belt or shoulder-strap (baldric).

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.
Antonine to Severan era.)

Left hand: 40 mm wide x 33 mm.
Right hand: 37 mm wide x 37mm.

References:
Roman Military Equipment, 1st edition, figure 174, #4 from Zenkovarkony Hungary from a belt which also has the propeller stiffeners.
Dura Europos report, volume 7, page 81, #94 dated circa 200-250 AD with others cited from Wroxeter UK.
Redzic, Viminacium, #150e, type XVIIIv1, found with a ring buckle.
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Belt Plates - 3rd century AD - "Eye" designTwo "kidney" or "eye" style Roman belt plates. A plain belt plate on the left and a hanger plate on the right.

Mid-2nd to 3rd century AD.

References:
Left hand:
Dura Europos report, volume 7, dated circa 200-250 AD, with other examples cited from Romania.
Appels & Laycock, AA 8.27.
Redzic, Viminacium, #511-514, type XVIIIv1.
Roman Military from Apulum Romania, VIII/1.

Right hand:
Kostromichev, Fittings, fig. 5, #3 from Nova, Ukraine.
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Belt Plates - 4th/5th century - Propeller shaped "Stiffeners"A variety of propeller-shaped sword belt stiffeners, circa 4th to early 5th century AD.

These items were spaced along the sword belt to keep the side belt from bending under the weight of the sword.

Left to right:

#1) early-mid 4th century (340-360s AD), 22 mm tall, circle design in centre, one rivet remaining
Ref: JRMES 16, page 303, fig. 74, Burgenae Serbia; Militaria Sisciensia # 374; Redzic, Viminacium, # 652, type XXIv1.

#2) 4th century (likely middle), 33 mm tall, circle design in centre, part of one rivet remaining
Ref: JRMES 16, page 303, fig. 76, Burgenae Serbia; Carnuntum AD 313a, # 426; Redzic, Viminacium, # 641, type XXIv1; Poetovio Museum, fig. 117b (5 examples).

#3) early-mid 4th century (340-360s AD), 27 mm tall, plain design, one rivet remaining
Ref: JRMES 16, page 303, fig. 75, Burgenae Serbia; Militaria Sisciensia # 370-371; Redzic, Viminacium, # 663, type XXIv1.

#4) Lead mould matrix or model, mid-4th century, 42 mm tall, ridge down centre
Ref: Militaria Sisciensia # 378-384; Redzic, Viminacium, # 657, type XXIv1.

Bottom: mid-late 4th century (340-360s AD), 68 mm tall, ridge down centre, one rivet remaining
Ref: Redzic, Viminacium, type XXIv2.

They were found across the Roman empire especially in Western Europe, the Balkans and North Africa.
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Apron Strap Plate - 1st century AD - Niello designThis narrow plate contains the remains of neillo inlay and silvering. It would have been attached to a narrow vertically hanging strap below the armour.

1st century AD
(Tiberian to Flavian)

40 x 9 mm
cast with two rivets on reverse.

References:
JRMES #3, 1992, page 96, figure 15, #5-7. Apron straps from the UK.
Ad Arma!, item # 379, Augusta Raurica (now Kaiseraugst), Switzerland.
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Belt Plate - 1st century BC to 1st century AD - FragmentThe left hand 1/3 of what may be a large belt plate.

The edge of the central medallion design can just be made out.

Belt plates that look similar can be found in Bishop and Coulston's Roman Military equipment, 2nd edition, (e.g. figure 33, #2) and many other works.

However, this item is thick and cast, whereas many early belt plates appear to be thin and embossed.

Mills, Celtic and Roman Artefacts notes that these were attached with rivets and indeed a single rivet remains on the reverse of this plate fragment.

The identification remains uncertain at this time.
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Belt Plates - 2nd century AD - Openwork filigreeRoman open-work, or opus interassile, style belt plaques.

The small plate on the left served as a hanger - a pouch or knife was attached to the loop.
The larger plate on the right was a standard decorative plate.

Both date to the mid-2nd to early 3rd century AD.

References:
Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 88, #2-4 from Strageath on Hadrian's Wall.
Dura Europos report, volume 7, #87 which cites parallels from Richborough, Zugmantel, Saalburg and Drnholec Croatia.
Appels and Laycock, AA 14.55, 3rd century.
An exact parallel for the long, right hand plate, was found at Bashonal do Ibor in western Spain, Morillo and Aurrecoechea, The Roman Army in Hispania, page 173, #8.
1 commentsSCMar 13, 2010
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Belt Plates - 2nd/3rd century AD - Solid designTwo sword belt (cingulum) plates circa 3rd century AD.

Mid-2nd to early 3rd century AD.

The top example may have been found at the buckle end of the belt - hence its asymmetrical shape.

References for top example:
Dura Europos report, volume 7, figure 38, #85.
At the Carnuntum Museum in Bad Altenbach.
Redzic, Viminacium, #424 + 431, Type XVIIv4, c 150-200 AD.
Kostromychev, Burial Fittings, fig.4, # 2, Chersonesos, Ukraine.

References for the lower example:
Dura Europos report, volume 7, figure 38, #84.
Redzic, Viminacium, #428, Type XVIIv4, late 2nd to early 3rd century AD.
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Belt Plates - 2nd/3rd century AD - Open rectangle designTwo sword belt (cingulum) plates circa mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

The empty centre portion was filled with a bar or spindle on some examples.

Parallels for the top example:
Dura Europos report, volume 7, figure 38, #85.
At the Carnuntum Museum in Bad Altenbach.
JRMES 16, page 297, #17, Burgenae Serbia.
Redzic, Viminacium, #435, Type XVII, c 150-250 AD.


Parallels for the lower example:
Dura Europos report, volume 7, figure 38, #84.
Appels & Laycock, AA 8.4.
Redzic, Viminacium, #402, type XVIIv2.
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Buckles - ByzantineSucidava type buckles associated with the Byzantine military circa AD 550 - 600.

They are named after a Byzantine fort site on the Danube river.
They are sometimes found in early Avar and Slav contexts but were imported by them from Byzantium or were booty taken from the Byzantine legions.

Type 1 is the "cross and crescent type" at the top which shows a Christian context.
Known as Uenze Cv; Teodor C; Madgearu Id.
Byzantine military, circa 550-600 AD.

Type 2 is the anthropomorphic face type" at the middle and bottom.
Known as Uenze E; Teodor F; Madgearu IIc.
Byzantine military, circa 575-600 AD.
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Handle - Military-issue Casserole DishThis handle from a bronze casserole dish has the ring-handle design (kasserollen mit kreisrunem loch).

This type began to be used circa 50 AD but is found in contexts up until the Marcomannic Wars in the 160s-170s.

It was likely mass-made in state factories (fabricae) the Capua area of Italy for the Legions and Cavalry Alae. This example came from near Carnuntum in Austria and may have belonged the Legio XV Apollonaris which was stationed at Carnuntum for much of the time during which this item was in use.

References:
Fibeln und Bronzegefasse von Kempten-Cambodunum, table 25, #14-15 from Cambodunum, Germany.
The form is known as type Eggers 142/143; Petrovszky V 2,3; and Radnoti 15.
Xantener Berichte 16, page 129, fig. 10, Sarmizegethusa Romania, Roman military context.

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Sword Baldric - Phalerae - Open-work circleThis high quality bronze item is likely a phalerae which decorated a sword baldric (balteus).

Circa mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:
Similar, though not exact, designs can be seen in Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 100 and,
Dura Europos report, volume 7, page 75, #19.
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Handles - Chest or Drawer - Dolphin formI had originally labelled this as a possible helmet handle based on a few vendors and websites.
It is now clear that these are handles for drawers or small chests.

The cotter pin went through a hole in the wood and was then bent wide inside the drawer or chest.
Often the inside of the drawer or chest was protected/strengthened with a flat square of bronze with a hole in the middle.

A full handle with both cotter pins and the square bronze plates is displayed in the Archeologial Museum of Roman Poetovia in Ptuj, Slovenia.

Circa 1st to 2nd century AD.

These handles are designed as two dolphins facing, each with three pronged tails.

Reports that these are often found at Roman military sites (including Poetovio), as well as civiliain sites, may indicate that the handle was used on small portable chests used by the military as well as civlian items but this is just a guess.
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Belt Plate - 1st century - with NielloThis large rectangular sword belt (cingulum) plate is made of bronze with niello inlay in a vine design and traces of silvering.

It dates to the early 1st century AD.
(Tiberian to Neronian era.)

Similar examples can be seen in the legionnary's sword belt display in the British Museum and in Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 62, #1-4 from Hod Hill UK and Rheingonheim Germany.

When new the sword belt would have been covered in these shiny silvered plates with their with black decoration.
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Buckles - 4th century AD - Late RomanTwo buckles circa 4th century AD.

The upper example, with its small, odd-shaped hinged plate is likely late 4th century.
It is known as Soupault, type 1, variant I2a and is found in Eastern Europe.

The lower example, with its square hinged plate, dates from the mid- to late-4th century AD.
It is known as Soupault type Ib with plate type 1, variant I2aI.
Example #1 in Soupault was found in Callatis, Romania.
Though mostly found in Eastern Europe and example is known from Winchester (Roman Military Equipment, 1st edition, figure 137, #4).
Also Carnuntum AD 313, # 390.

Despite use by barbarian soldiers both are considered Roman types.
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Buckles - 4th/5th century - Late RomanTwo buckles circa late 4th to early 5th century AD.

The left hand example, with its decorated hinged plate is likely late 4th to 5th century.
An exact parallel is found in Soupault, page 141, #6 from Callatis, Romania and is known as type 1, variant I2a.
It was reportedly Gothic.

The right hand example, missing its hinged plate, dates from mid-4th to early 5th century AD.
It is known as Soupault type II, variant II2a or Somner type ICb and is found across the Roman empire.

Despite use by barbarian soldiers both are considered Roman types.
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Buckle - 3rd/4th century - BarbarianDespite the very fine workmanship this is a "barbarian" and not a Roman item.
These buckles were used by the Sarmatians and the Chernyakhov (aka Tcherniakov) culture which comprised an Alan and Goth mix.

This small buckles was likely attached to the lower edge of a sword belt where it was used for suspending straps which held a dagger, purse, etc.

Circa mid-3rd to late 4th century AD, circa 250-365.

References:
Classed in Soupault's Les Element Metalliques du Costume Masculin dans les Provinces Romaines de la Mers Noire as buckle and plate type 1, variant Ia.
The closest parallel is #7 from a tomb at Timochevskaia in the Russian Kuban but #2 from a small fort at Iatrus, Bulgaria is also very similar.

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Buckles - for Sword BeltTwo non-hinged buckles for Roman sword belts (balteus or cingulum).

The example on the left dates to the mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.
The one on right to the mid-1st to early 2nd century AD.

References for the left hand version:
Roman Military Equipment 2nd edition, figure 124, #11 from Corbridge UK, dated to the 3rd century.
JRMES 17, 2006, page 147 + 149.
The Dura Europos report notes similar finds dating to 200-250 AD from Syria, Germany, Serbia, Romania, UK and Spain.
The Ashmolean Museum collection notes an example found in a Sarmatian grave in Kertch, Crimea.

References for the right hand version:
Roman Military Equipment, 1st edition, figure 97, #15 from Hod Hill, UK, dated to the 1st century AD.
Redzic, Viminacium, #6, Type Iv3, circa 100-150 AD.

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Buckle - 1st century - HingedBuckle, with iron hinge and portion of the belt plate, for a Roman military sword belt.

Circa 1st century AD.
(Augustan to early-Flavian era.)

It can be distinguished by the complex buckle design and the fleur-de-lys pin.

References:
Bishop and Coulston's Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 62 #8 (from Rheingonhiem Germany) and #19 (from Velsen Netherlands).
A silver example is found in the Dura Europos excavation report volume 7, page 77, # 52.
Examples can be seen in the British Museum and the Romische Museum in Germany.
Ad Arma!, Augusta Raurica (Kaiseraugsut) Switzerland, tbl. 16, # 290.
Appels and Laycock, AA 12.7.


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Armour - Buckle with Articulated Plate - For Breastplate from Corbridge-type Lorica SegmentataUnique buckle and plate type that was only used on Roman Lorica Segmentata armour.

It was used on all versions of the Corbridge-type (A to C) to fasten together the breastplates.
It played the same function as the plain D-buckle on the Kalkriese type and the turn keys on the Newstead type.

The Corbridge-type is dated to the mid-1st to mid-2nd century AD,
especially the Claudian to Traianic/Hadrianic eras.


References:
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, figure 5.1, 5.4, 5.6 b, 5.9, 5.10, 10.1.
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, figure 5, # 1, 4 and 7.

This example matches type Aiii with finds at Vindonissa, Cirnchester and, in an almost exact match, Kaiseraugst Germany (dated to 50 AD).
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Armour - Tie Rings (three) - For Girth Hoops from Newstead-type Lorica SegmentataThree tie rings for Newstead-type lorica segmentata armour.

Theses were used on the Newstead-type armour to fasten together the girth hoops (the bands that covered the lower chest and abdomen).
They were riveted to one side of the girth hoop, the other side of the girth hoop was overlapped and the tie ring passed through a rectangular slot.
The tie rings were then secured, so that the girth hoop stayed closed, either with individual split pins (cotter pins) or with a single long metal rod.

The Newstead-type is dated to the early 2nd to mid-3rd century AD,
especially the Hadrianic to late Severan eras.


References:
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, figure 6.1, 6.8, 6.12 # 3, 4, 7, 8 + 12; 10.1.
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, type Iiii, known as "D-shaped".

Parallels have been found in Carnuntum, Komano Bulgaria, Aldborough, Caerleon, Chichester, Dalton Parlows, and South Shields.
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Armour - Tie Rings (four) - For Girth Hoops from Newstead-type Lorica SegmentataFour tie rings for Newstead-type lorica segmentata armour.

Theses were used on the Newstead-type armour to fasten together the girth hoops (the bands that covered the lower chest and abdomen).
They were riveted to one side of the girth hoop, the other side of the girth hoop was overlapped and the tie ring passed through a rectangular slot.
The tie rings were then secured, so that the girth hoop stayed closed, either with individual split pins (cotter pins) or with a single long metal rod.

The Newstead-type is dated to the early 2nd to mid-3rd century AD,
especially the Hadrianic to late Severan eras.

References:
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, figure 6.1, 6.8, 6.12 # 1 + 5; 10.1.
Thomas, Lorica Segmentata II, type Ii, with basal traverse rib.

The rings were mounted to one side of the breastplate and passed through a rectangular slot on the other side of the breastplate. Unlike the keys they were not turned after being passed through the slot but instead tied with leather cords.
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lorica_keys_3.jpg
Armour - two Turn Keys for Lorica Squamata and Newstead-type Lorica Segmentata BreastplatesTwo types of turn keys for the breastplates from Roman lorica squamata (scale armour) or lorica segmentata.
These true keys were used for fasteneing the breastplates on lorica squamata (scale armour) as well as the upper breastplates on Newstead-type lorica segmentata armour.

Roman lorica squamata scale armour had two small pectoral plates which were slightly overlapped until the rectangular holes lined up. This type of turn key was then inserted through the two holes and turned locking the plates together. The pectoral plates were fastened with one or two such keys each.

A pair were similarly used for lorica segmentata breastplates on the Newstead-type in the same role as the single buckle on the Kalkriese-type and the articulated buckle on the Corbridge-type.



These come in two main variants. The first has a T-shape, the second has a spade shape. Both are contemporary.

These examples came from near Carnuntum.

Mid-2nd to mid-3rd century AD.

References:

Upper example:
Dura Europos report 7, page 121, # 426-429, 431.
Bishop, Lorica Segmentata I, fig. 6.1, 6.2, 6.11

Lower example:
Caerleon Canabae report, fig. 94, # 204.
Dura Europos report 7, page 121, # 420-425, 430.
One examples was found at Manching, Germany still attached to the lorica squamata plates.
SCMar 13, 2010
Misc_Roman_5a.jpg
Sword Scabbard - Slide - for Spatha SwordThis Roman scabbard slide was mounted to the side of the leather-covered wooden spatha scabbard.
The baldric (shoulder belt) then fed through the gap.

It is type Carnap-Burnheim 3C2.
From late-2nd to early 3rd century AD.

The top portion (approximately 1/3) of this scabbard slide is broken off and missing.

References:
Xantener Berichte 16, page 160, 8.5-8.6, from Thorsberg bog.
Fischer, fig. 257, #11.
Bishop and Coulston's Roman Military Equipment, 2nd edition, figure 78 #1 (Antonine era find from Handrian's Wall) and figure 99 #6 (Corbridge hoard find from 3rd c.).
Dura Europos excavation report #7 (small finds), figure 89, #533 which notes that similar items have also been found in South Shields UK, Buciumi Romania, Lyon France and Banasa Mauretania.
SCMar 13, 2010
 
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