Roman miniature padlock

A unique find, this tiny object is very finely crafted. What is it? This Roman miniature padlock, comprising a gold exterior and an iron core, measures just 1.2cm by 1.1cm. It is similar in form, technical structure, and decorative style to other Roman locks known from the 3rd or 4th century AD. However, these other examples are significantly larger and are typically made of iron or bronze; this golden example, smaller than a €1 coin, is a unique find. The tiny object is very finely crafted: the lock’s casing is made from two cylindrical gold sheets, sealed at the top and bottom, and decorated with two rows of perforations. The lock is missing its key and most of its chain, bu