ROMAN KEY RING, 1st-3rd CENTURY AD, SIZE 4 1/2

Iron with raised large rectangular projection, transversely keyed to allow operation of a lock mechanism. These rings were made to operate the locks on jewelry boxes and wearing such rings was a status symbol, implying that the wearer owned such a box. Accordingly, some were made and worn, when no jewelry box existed. This iron example was made for use.  Stable excavated condition.