ITEM: Weight lot (4 pieces) MATERIAL: Bronze CULTURE: Roman PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D DIMENSIONS: 10 mm to 14 mm CONDITION: Good condition PROVENANCE: Ex Spanish private collection, acquired between 1970s - 2020s Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export license If you bid outside the european union and win the item, we will have to apply for an export licence for your country and shipping will take 3 to 5 weeks. Roman weights were essential tools in the daily commercial and administrative activities of the Roman Empire, reflecting the sophistication of Roman trade, economy, and engineering. These weights were typically made from durable materials such as bronze, lead, stone, or iron, ensuring their longevity and accuracy. The weights were used in various contexts, including marketplaces for weighing goods, in tax collection, and in the military for ensuring standard measures. The standardization of weights across the empire facilitated trade and economic integration, allowing for consistency in transactions and reducing disputes over measures. The design and markings on Roman weights were diverse, often indicating their intended use, origin, and verification. Many weights were shaped as discs, cubes, or animal forms, with inscriptions or stamps that identified the weight unit, such as the Roman libra (pound), uncia (ounce), or other regional variations. These markings also often included symbols, numerals, or inscriptions that indicated official verification by authorities, ensuring that the weights met standard regulations. This practice of marking weights helped to maintain trust in commercial transactions and underscored the administrative control exercised by Roman authorities over trade practices. Roman weights also provide valuable insights into the daily life and economic activities of ancient Rome. Archaeological finds of weights in urban centers, ports, and military sites highlight their widespread use and the importance of regulated measurement in various aspects of Roman life. The study of these weights reveals the complexity of Roman trade networks, the level of bureaucratic control, and the technological advancements in metallurgy and standardization. Moreover, the presence of weights in different regions of the empire indicates the extent of Roman influence and the integration of local economies into the broader imperial system.