Gold Fibula

Fibulae with three onion-shaped knobs were one of the most common types of fibulae in the late Roman era and were worn primarily by soldiers, officers and clerks. They were most often made of bronze and decorated with a simple geometrical ornament. Silver and gold fibulae are quite rare and belonged to holders of important military and civil functions, which indicates that, in addition to fastening clothing, they also represented a status symbol. The gold fibula, presumably from Čentur near Koper, represents an exceptional find, not only due to its precious material, but also due to the inscriptions on the bow, celebrating Emperor Maxentius and his son Romulus. A replica of this fibula is on display at the Koper Regional Museum, whereas the original is kept at the museum Archäologische Staatssammlung München in Bavaria. Together with the previously discovered coin treasures from the same site, it bears witness to the military operations in the territory of northern Istria during the struggle for power between Maxentius and Licinius in the beginning of the 4th century A.D.