Re: Gladius Sheath ID Tag Inscription

Hi John!

I just had this gladius sheath ID tag come in from Wim over in Holland - I thought it was legionary as in originally belonging to a member of the V Macedonia (MV). Now I am not so sure. I have written to Linda Malcor to see if she can figure out this inscription! Would you have any ideas? It has me baffled - It reads as follows:

> OCTAVI . RV /
ITATI   MV
MITI

The bronze piece is paper thin - Now I know why I have never seen one! It is also a very dark green patina which as you know usually means that the bronze is silvered.

It appears to perhaps be 2 names - Itati is sometimes used as a female's name in Latin - If so is it a male and female's name as in a husband and wife? A gladiator's rudius should not be ruled out?

The writing is right to left so there is no doubt that this was used to make a wax impression - If a legionary in the event of casualty? If gladiator - Proof of freedom? Mitte is what the amphitheater crowd would roar to free a gladiator from death and Miti in Latin means to let go (as in let it fly).

One thing is for sure and that is that I cannot fully interpret this inscription as I have to much high speed low drag going on these days! Any assistance would greatly be appreciated!

The photo attachments are of the piece and with the piece on top of a 1st Century BC gladius movie prop sheath ID tag (from the movie Spartacus).



All My Best,

Dave Kenney   <^^^^>
Vice President

Roman Officer, Inc.
Roman Officer Arts and Antiquities
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