In a remarkable turn of events, a 12-year-old boy named Rowan Brannan stumbled upon a rare Roman bracelet while walking his dog in Pagham, England. This extraordinary find, dating back to the first century C.E., has captivated historians and archaeologists alike. The bracelet, made of gold, is believed to have been awarded to a Roman soldier for acts of valor. This discovery not only sheds light on Roman military history but also highlights the rich archaeological heritage of the region.
A Chance Discovery
Rowan Brannan was out for a routine walk with his mother and their dog when he noticed a glint of gold on the ground. Intrigued, he picked up the object, which turned out to be a beautifully crafted Roman bracelet. The family immediately contacted local authorities, who confirmed the authenticity and historical significance of the find. The bracelet, adorned with intricate designs, is a rare example of Roman military decorations known as armilla.
The discovery has been officially declared a treasure by the local coroner’s court, as it meets the criteria of being over 300 years old and made of precious metal. This designation ensures that the bracelet will be preserved and studied, providing valuable insights into Roman Britain.
Historical Significance
The bracelet is believed to have been awarded to a Roman soldier as a mark of bravery and service. Such decorations were highly prized and often given to soldiers who had shown exceptional courage in battle. The fact that this bracelet is made of gold, rather than the more common copper alloy, suggests that it was awarded to a high-ranking officer.
Experts from the British Museum have analyzed the bracelet and confirmed its authenticity. The intricate design, featuring five parallel bands, is typical of Roman military decorations from the first century C.E. This find adds to the growing body of evidence that Roman soldiers were present in the region and played a significant role in its history.
Future Display
The bracelet is set to be displayed at the Novium Museum in Chichester, where it will be part of an exhibition on Roman Britain. This will allow the public to view the artifact and learn more about the history of the region. The museum plans to include detailed information about the bracelet’s discovery, its historical context, and its significance.
Rowan Brannan and his family have expressed their excitement about the find and their involvement in the process. They have been kept informed throughout the investigation and are looking forward to seeing the bracelet on display. This discovery has not only brought them closer to history but also highlighted the importance of preserving and studying archaeological finds.
