Ancient Roman Bone Dice - 15 mm (No reserve price)

Old-Roman Talus – a remarkable 4–5–6 playing piece with ring eyes

An intriguing playing object with a striking character: this talus, attributed to the Old-Roman period, immediately sets itself apart from the much more commonly offered traditional dice.

The most remarkable feature is the unusual 4–5–6 configuration. Instead of the familiar numbering of a normal six-sided die, the object is characterized by repeated higher values. The pips are moreover not rendered as simple dots, but as beautifully incised concentric ring-and-point motifs.

It is precisely this combination that gives the object its powerful presence. The irregular shape, rounded and damaged edges, discolorations and visible signs of use and aging ensure that every face has its own character. It is not a sleek, modern gaming object, but a piece whose manufacture and wear are visibly part of its appearance.

What makes this specimen special: the 4–5–6 markings, the pronounced ring eyes and the hand-made-looking execution together form a much more interesting whole than a conventional 1–6 die. An object that draws attention both from the perspective of ancient gaming culture and for the collector of archaeological curiosa.

A special Talus with a mysterious configuration — small in size, but with a tremendous historic aura.