Description of the Product Our Roman Julius Caesar Letter Opener is an homage to the sword of Julius Caesar (101 BCE–44 BCE), the greatest military and political leader of ancient Rome. He is most famous for his military conquests of Gaul, and turning a mighty republic into the Empire that other empires are still measured against. The actual sword used by Julius Caesar has not survived through millenia. The 12th C. Historia Regum Brittaniae (History of the Kings of Britain), by Geoffrey of Monmouth describes Julius Caesar as having a notable sword when he invaded Britain in 55 BCE. The book mentions that Caesar's sword was named Crocea Mors, Latin for Yellow Death. Crocea Mors would most likely have been a bronze gladius. Although iron had started to replace bronze as the metal of choice, it was not because it was superior, but because it was cheaper. The gladius of the common soldier would therefore have been made of iron, but the weapon of the master of the known universe definitely would have been a traditional bronze one. The Roman gladius had a long point that combined cutting power and stabbing ability in one handy weapon, and was used among others by Caesars legionaries during their conquests. The guard and pommel is ornamented with figures sculpted in relief. Overall length 26 cm Silver Finish hilt Stainless Steel Blade Made by Marto of Toledo
