So do we have actual surviving commentary on the structural differences during the early imperial period? And are those seams added supports, or were the helmets made of multiple plates bent/welded together?
this post was submitted on 26 Sep 2025
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No surviving commentary to my knowledge, the helmet development is by contemporary artistic depictions and archeological finds.
Early on, the helmets are very Italic and Greek in origin; by the mid and late Republic, there's a strong Gallic influence, and by the early Empire, there's a very unique (but still ultimately Gallic-derived) style that's developed - what most people think of when they think of a Roman helmet. In the Late Empire, there are stronger Central Asian and Germanic influences.
Those seams in the Late Imperial helmets are from multiple plates being used, yes. Earlier Roman helmets were generally of one main piece, with only things like cheekguards being attached separately.
Hmm. I wonder if they were easier to mass produce that way. During Rome's height they really did a lot of things at industrial scale. Thanks again!