Roman phalerae

A phalera is a metal ornament, usually circular, engraved or chased with a figure in relief.

Awarded to Roman legionaries for acts of bravery or for campaigns in which they had fought victoriously, phalerae were worn attached to the cuirass.

The same element is also found on horse harness.

The phalerae shown here are specific commissions for the Praetorian Guard of the Emperor Hadrian.

The spaces awaiting future phalerae are filled with a decorative rivet.