A Miniature Roman Gold Lock Unearthed in Germany!
In 2023, an exciting and rare discovery was made near Petershagen-Frille in the Minden-Lübbecke district of Germany. Licensed detectorist Constantin Fried unearthed a miniature Roman lock during a routine field survey. Recognising the importance of the find, Fried immediately reported it to the LWL-Archeologie für Westfalen in Bielefeld.
The small yet highly significant item is a 3rd-century Roman gold and iron lock, measuring just 1.1 cm by 1.2 cm — smaller than a one-euro coin. The lock is a miniature version of the Roman cylindrical locks typically used to secure chests and containers. Such finds are incredibly rare, making this discovery an extraordinary one in Europe.
Photo Credit: LWL / Stefan Brentführer
Fried himself expressed disbelief upon holding the lock, saying, "I could hardly believe it myself when I held the find in my hand. Roman locks like these are typically much larger and made of iron or bronze components." Dr. Barbara Rüschoff-Parzinger, cultural director at LWL and an expert in archaeology, confirmed that the lock was likely crafted in the provincial Roman territories. Its design and decorative elements suggest it dates back to the 3rd or 4th century CE.
The researchers speculate that this lock may have arrived in Westphalia through several possible routes: as loot from a war, via trade, or as a souvenir from a soldier returning from service in the Roman army.
An Intricate Work of Art
The lock itself is composed of two cylindrical plates, both sealed at the top and bottom, with three gold rivets holding it together. The outer casing of the lock is elegantly adorned with sculpted perforations, showcasing the high quality of craftsmanship. Sadly, the original key and chain are missing, though one chain link remains attached to the lock.
To understand the inner workings of the lock, advanced imaging techniques were employed. Traditional X-ray scans were unable to penetrate the dense gold casing, so the team turned to 3D neutron computed tomography (CT). This technique, performed by Dr. David Mannes and Dr. Eberhard Lehmann from the Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland, allowed researchers to view the internal iron mechanism clearly. The scans revealed a complex frame with a spring, a guide rail, a bolt, a base plate, and a pin.
Despite some damage, experts were able to reconstruct the lock’s mechanism. An impressive replica, four times the size of the original, was created by an archaeological restorer at LWL. This model was based on comparative finds and imaging data, and it also featured a reconstruction of the lock’s chain. Dr. Michael Rind, Director of LWL Archaeology, noted that the lock’s chain would have consisted of at least six links to function properly.
Photo Credit: LWL / Stefan Brentführer
A Glimpse into the Past
This discovery not only offers valuable insights into Roman engineering but also sheds light on the cultural interactions between local elites in Westphalia and the Roman Empire. The lock stands as a tangible connection to a time long past, yet many questions still remain. Was this lock a unique commissioned piece, or could there be other examples waiting to be uncovered?
As research into this fascinating find continues, it serves as a reminder of the rich history that lies beneath our feet, waiting to be discovered. The miniaturised Roman lock is more than just an object; it is a symbol of the intricate and sophisticated craftsmanship of the ancient world.