A Roman gold miniature padlock, found in 2023 by a licensed metal detectorist in Petershagen, near the border with Lower Saxony is set to go on display.
Measuring only 11 by 12 millimeters, the padlock's intricate details are hardly recognizable to the naked eye.
Dating back to the 3rd or 4th century BCE, the find offers insights into the Roman presence in the region.
The piece was examined in Switzerland, delaying its presentation date to January 2025, reported Süddeutsche Zeitung. The analysis was necessary to verify the authenticity of the padlock and to gather information about its origins and use.
Further details will be announced at a press conference on January 28, according to Münchner Merkur.
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.