ROMAN CENTURION HELMET (IR80612)
KEY FEATURES: * High carbon steel with brass accents * Replicates an original * Perfect for the collector or reenactor
MEASUREMENTS: DIMENSIONS: 18" x 9" x 9" CIRCUMFERENCE: 27 WEIGHT: 6 lbs

THE CENTURION HELMET
The Roman Centurion were most known for their distinctive attire: bearing their sword on the left rather than the right, full body polished metal armor, and the most clear example of which is his helmet. Most of the helmets used by legionaries had a crest holder. The crests were usually made of plumes or horse hair. Originally, Roman helmets were influenced by the neighboring Etruscans, people who utilized the "Nasua" type helmets. The Greeks in the south also influenced Roman design in the early history of Rome. On the front of the helmet , about 3" above the rim is a protrusion protecting the forehead. This was designed to prevent sword blows from penetrating the helmet and causing head injuries. The rear of the helmet had a guard that protected the neck from sword blows.

The centurion in the infantry is chosen for his size, strength and dexterity in throwing his missile weapons and for his skill in the use of his sword and shield; in short for his expertness in all the exercises. He is to be vigilant, temperate, active and readier to execute the orders he receives than to talk; Strict in exercising and keeping up proper discipline among his soldiers, in obliging them to appear clean and well-dressed and to have their arms constantly rubbed and bright. (Vegetius. De Re Militari, [link] II, 14 )