ROMAN IRON KEY RING C.100-300 AD

Size 4 1/4. Broad rounded band with integral rectangular toothed “key projection. Good patina. These rings were used to open jewelry boxes, the ownership of which was prestigious. As a result, many were made for show only, and worn when no such box existed. This example represents the extreme as the “key” is superficially toothed and too close to the bezel to operate a lock.