Material: Bronze Dimensions: Diameter 54 mm Period: Celtic, circa 800–50 BC Condition: Very good condition for age, with minor surface wear and an attractive natural patina. No restoration. A fine Celtic bronze ring amulet or piece of ring money. The ring is solidly cast with evenly spaced lobed protrusions around its circumference and a beautiful dark green patina developed over time. Although the rings were not minted as traditional coins, they were used as a means of exchange, sometimes called "ring money" or "proto-money." They were often found in large quantities in treasure troves. The rings were also worn as jewelry, attached to clothing, or strung on a rope or leather cord, as shown in the image. Many of these objects likely had a spiritual meaning as a protective amulet. In Celtic culture, the circle symbolizes unity, perfection, and infinity, and is considered a protection against evil spirits.