Late Roman/Early Byzantine Bronze Roman Bronze Warded Key with Twisted Suspension Ring · 1st–3rd C. AD - 37.52 mm (No reserve price)

An ancient Roman cast bronze key with a flat, slightly tapering shank terminating in a right-angled openwork bit, formed of a square frame and an H-shaped ward section designed to pass the internal wards of a lock. A twisted (spiral) suspension ring passes through the pierced terminal of the handle, allowing the key to be carried or hung.

Keys of this type were used to secure wooden chests, cupboards, caskets and strongboxes across the Roman Empire. Beyond their practical role, keys symbolised trust and responsibility in the household; the one who held the keys was the keeper of its valuables.

The surface shows an even brown-olive patina with wear consistent with age. A solid, attractive and highly collectable example of Roman everyday technology.

Material: Bronze / copper alloy
Culture: Roman
Period: Circa 1st–3rd century AD
Object type: Warded key (chest / casket key) with suspension ring
Dimensions: 37.52 mm - 16,47 mm
Weight: 12 g
Condition: Good and solid; wear and patina consistent with age (as shown in the photographs)