Reconstruction: A gladius from Mainz

Here is a reconstruction of a gladius found in Mainz, and is likely to date to the mid to late first century AD. It was formerly in the collection of Axel Guttman, and hints at the type of finds all too often hidden from public knowledge.

The organic components of the original example have decayed, but have been reconstructed based on better preserved finds from Pompeii.

Archaeologists have dubbed this pattern the 'Pompeii' type gladius, based on a series of examples excavated from the city.  It had become popular by the Flavian era.

Similar gladii have been found in the UK, but not so complete. A similar locket plate was found in Loughor, Wales, and likely relates to the Second Legion battle group.