A Roman Iron Gladius Sword, c. 2nd - 3rd century A.D.

DESCRIPTION:

A Roman Iron Gladius Sword, ca 2nd - 3rd century A.D. the last few inches of the double-edged and parallel sided blade tapering to a sharp point, the tang complete with small disk-shaped pommel. The blade style with the parallel edges and triangular point is the shorter, wider Lauriacum style; this type of gladius lends itself well to slashing use, possibly for use by mounted soldiers as well. The Gladius would have featured a wooden hilt with round pommel that was bound with leather. Reference: For a discussion on gladius swords, see Wilkinson Arms and Armor (1971) and M.C. Bishop and J.C.N. Coulston, Roman Military Equipment from the Punic War to the Fall of Rome, pp. 126-127, see page 128 - the excavation in Nydam by Engelhardt in 1885; illus. #15 for type.

CONDITION:

Intact and in very good excavated condition, professionally conserved with some removal of scale where possible to show original blade. The blade still sharp in some areas along the edge, with some expected small losses. Overall an excellent example.

PROVENANCE / PERIOD:

Dr. Peter Bernhard, excavated from a Roman fortress on the River Danube, Bavaria

DIMENSIONS:

Length: 64.7cm (25.5in)

PRICE: $7,500.00 SOLD

Source: www.dcancientart.com/