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Roman iron caltrop
Caltrops consist of four iron spikes joined at the base to project at angles so that, however they lie, three form a tripod and the fourth points upwards. They were thrown on the ground to impede the enemy's advance by wounding the feet of men and horses. Usually deployed around fortifications, they were on occassion employed in open battle. Roman caltrops are not common finds but 17 were found at Prysg field, Caerleon, 14 in the same room. For crippling enemy cavalry. 3rd century A.D.
Collection Area
Archaeology & Numismatics
Item Number
32.60/4.3
Find Information
Site Name: Prysg Field, Caerleon
Grid Reference: ST 33 91
Collection Method: excavation
Date: 1927-1929
Notes: RBb (44) S
Measurements
length / mm:30
width / mm:29
width / mm:24
width / mm:20
Categories
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