ROMAN LEGIONARY’S SWORD BELT MOUNT NECKLACE, MID-LATE 4TH CENTURY AD

This is an original belt mount from a Roman legionary’s sword belt, mid to late 4th century AD. See https://www.forumancientcoins.com/NumisWiki/view.asp?key=Roman%20Military%20Belts for virtually identical examples and detailed information. As well as decorative, these mounts were, capable of protectively absorbing the impact of a sword blow. Thus, they are in fact, a form of Roman armor. This example has seen considerable service and was buried for 1500 years.  It is bronze over 1 3/4” (1.82”) height with a strong medial reinforcing ridge. The 24karat gold surface is restored and mounted on an 18” gilt silver mounted polished leather neck cord for modern wear.  Gift boxed with certificate of authenticity.