ROMAN SIDE KNIFE, C.100-250 AD

Over 6 ¾” total length with dropped point relatively thin wedge section  which distinguishes it as a weapon and not a work knife. The root (base) squared to mount to a cast, probably figural hilt. The precursor to the scramseax (scramasax) which evolved in the Migration Period following the fall of the Roman Empire, in Viking and Frankish forms. This example is distinguished by the typology of the blade form. Later forms were made with a whittle tang seated directly into a bone or other material grip, without a base expansion or guard and generally, with the blade base angled for purchase in the grip. Very rare and fine example in exceptional preservation. With Plexiglas display stand and certification of authenticity.