Object Description
A fine Roman silver crossbow brooch featuring a semi-circle arched bow and short, flattened foot. The cross-bar is adorned with small knobs, a silver one on the right end whilst the left is missing. A final knob made of bronze has been applied to the bow. There is a long vertical incision running along the length of the bow ridge. Across the sides of the brooch is a dedicatory inscription in Latin: ‘VTER FELIX IURE VICTO’ which roughly translates to ‘To the rightful winner. Use it with good luck.’ The cross-bar is slightly tilted to the right. The hinged pin, still complete, sits on the other side of the pin catch, now fixed in place. There is evidence of gold gilt, applied to the silver, on the foot and terminating end of the arch.
Date: 4th century AD