Roman Legionaries Belt Plate, Phalera, 2nd-4th Century AD

Circular, just over 2" diameter, bronze, with integral double belt loops to the back. A Roman iron nail has been driven into the loops and bent to 90 degrees as an act of desecration presumably upon the capture of the legionnaire or as taken from his body. We have found no reference to that practice and presume that it was specific to this instance or at best, very limited. The nail is encrusted and clearly dating to that ancient period. The edge of the plate is slightly damaged from the hammering and bending of the nail. Possibly intended as a message to his superiors from a victorious enemy. Further research may shed more light on this practice.