Lorica segmentata
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The lōrīca segmentāta was a type of armour primarily used in the Roman Empire, but the Latin name was first used in the 16th century (the ancient form is unknown). The armour itself consisted of broad ferrous (iron or steel) strips ('girth hoops') fastened to internal leather straps. The strips were arranged horizontally on the body, overlapping downwards, and they surrounded the torso in two halves, being fastened at the front and back. The upper body and shoulders were protected by additional strips ('shoulder guards') and breast- and backplates. The form of the armour allowed it to be stored very compactly, since it was possible to separate it into four sections. During the time of its use, it was modified several times, the currently recognised types being the Kalkriese (c. 20 B.C. to A.D. 50), Corbridge (c. A.D. 40 to A.D. 120), and Newstead (c. A.D. 120 to 250) types.
So far as is known, only legionaries (heavy infantry of the Roman legions) and Praetorians were issued with the lorica segmentata. Auxiliary forces would more commonly wear the lōrīca hāmāta ("hooked armour") which is mail (frequently called chainmail) or lōrīca squāmāta (scale armour).
It fell out of use during the 3rd century A.D., but similar armouring techniques were used during the 16th century, employing sliding rivets and this was known as anima.
Ancient originals can be seen on the pages of the Roman Military Equipment Web museum (www.romancoins.info) * [1]
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