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, 4th century AD. It is gilt bronze, about 1” x ½” (0.96’ x0.46”). It is finely made with a cross within a knife edge border. Christianity was the official religion of Rome at the time. 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. The 24karat gold surface is restored and it is mounted on an 18” gilt silver mounted polished leather neck cord for modern wear.  Gift boxed with certificate of authenticity.