NM072527 Lorica Segmentata of The Praetorian Guard

This is a replica of an elite version of the famous armor of the Roman Legionnaires. Originating as escorts for high ranking military leaders during the Roman Republic era, the Praetorians were enlisted as the Praetorian Guard by Caesar Augustus at the beginning of the Roman Empire to be his personal bodyguards. Like the originals, the segments are attached to each other with leather bands for flexibility. The “girth hoops” cover the chest and stomach and are secured with leather strips. The pauldrons (shoulder armor) are hinged for comfort and attach to the lower armor with adjustable leather straps. The segments are forged of 18 gauge steel and blued. Fully functional and wearable. The trim, latches, hinges, and rivets are brass. Typically worn over a tunic. An attractive armor for wear or display.