Roman Iron Pugio and Sheath

An ancient Roman iron dagger or pugio with Celtic-Iberiaon style double disk hilt, tapering waisted blade and accompanying open work sheath.

Ca. 1st century BC - 1st century AD.

Length: 12 3/4 in. (32.5 cm).

The Iberic short sword or Gladius Hispaniensis was adapted by the Romans as early as the second century BC, and was the direct predecessor of both the Mainz-Type Gladius Romanus and the shortened, broad bladed Pugio dagger.

cf.: M. Saliola & F. Casprini, Pugio - Gladius Brevis Est, History and Technology of the Roman Battle Dagger, (Oxford, 2016), exemplars complete with sheath, pp. 119 -124.

Formerly in the Kuizenga collection, The Netherlands.

Inv#: 9178

Guaranteed Authentic

$15,000