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DAY 1: Historic Arms & Armor: Revolutionary America

Sat, Jul 18, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-07-18 11:00:00 2026-07-18 11:00:00 America/New_York Treasure Trove Treasure Trove : DAY 1: Historic Arms & Armor: Revolutionary America https://live.treasuretroveauctions.com/auctions/treasure-trove/day-1-historic-arms-armor-revolutionary-america-23506
Treasure Trove Auctions proudly presents Day 1 of our premier militaria event, featuring an extraordinary selection of historic American arms and relics, including some of the finest documented Revolutionary War material we have encountered, significant Civil War artifacts, American Indian pieces, and frontier-era history. Complementing this remarkable offering is our signature selection of medieval, Renaissance, and antique arms & armor, creating a truly exceptional sale spanning centuries of warfare. Now is your chance to acquire tangible history from all eras of military history!
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Lot 104

Rare & Important Roman Pompeii Gladius c. 27 BC-180 AD with Centurion Inlay, 29 in.

Current Bid
$250

Bid Increments

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$0 $25
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This extraordinary Roman Pompeii-type gladius, dating to approximately 27 BC to 180 AD, is one of the most important ancient edged weapons offered in this auction. The sword is constructed with a broad, parallel-sided, double-edged blade of flattened diamond section tapering to a point, with a distinctive triple fuller running along the blade. One side of the forte features a remarkable inlaid Centurion figure, an exceptionally compelling decorative and historical detail that elevates this piece beyond the standard Roman military sword. The grip is of wood with three finger grooves, paired with a copper-alloy guard formed as an elongated, horizontally tapering rectangular element. The sword is completed by a spherical wood pommel with a bronze washer at the finial. The piece has been conserved and restored to museum standards, shows exceptionally well, and the wood has been treated for insects. Length: Approximately 29 inches.

The gladius was the iconic sword of the Roman infantryman and one of the defining weapons of the ancient world. While the Latin word gladius simply means "sword," the term is now most closely associated with the short, powerful sidearm carried by Roman foot soldiers from the Republican period into the height of the Roman Empire. Developed from earlier Mediterranean and Celtiberian sword forms, the gladius became central to Roman battlefield doctrine, allowing disciplined infantry to thrust, cut, and fight effectively behind the protection of the large scutum shield. The evolution of the Roman sword included the Gladius Hispaniensis, the Mainz gladius, and eventually the Pompeii gladius, the type represented by this example.

The Pompeii gladius became the dominant Roman infantry sword during the Imperial period and is recognizable for its straighter, more parallel blade profile compared to earlier waisted forms. It remained in widespread use until the third century AD, when the longer spatha gradually replaced it as the principal sword of Roman forces. Surviving examples are among the most desirable artifacts in ancient arms collecting, especially when they retain strong form, identifiable construction features, and rare decorative elements such as figural inlay. This example's Centurion inlay, preserved hilt elements, museum-quality conservation, and commanding display presence make it a true centerpiece for an advanced collection or institution.

Provenance: Consigned by one of the most renowned arms and armor experts in the world.

★ ★ ★ ★
Very Good/Fine - Shows light to moderate wear, may have minor imperfections. A very fine example of the collectible. May also be labelled as Collector Quality.

 

Condition assessed using Treasure Trove Auctions’ proprietary grading scale. While we strive for accuracy, all ratings are subjective and based on our best evaluation as determined by a dedicated team of researchers, from expert appraisers to knowledgeable historians and veteran collectors. Full grading details can be found on our Authentication page for reference. For a more in-depth condition report or additional images, please contact us and we will be more than happy to oblige.

 

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