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

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. While 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 is of early form when narrower belts were used. It is well preserved with light surface texture from use and burial. It is bronze about 1 1/4” (1.21”) height with dramatically flared terminals flanking a concentric circle middle. The silver surface restored and mounted on an 18” silver mounted polished leather neck cord for modern wear. Gift boxed with certificate of authenticity.