Metal Detectorist Finds 1600-Year-Old Tiny Gold Lock, Reveals Intricate Roman Craftsmanship

A metal detectorist spotted a millennium-old miniature gold lock in Germany in 2023. Constantin Fried, discovered the lock at a field in Westphalia, stated Live Science. The artifact measured just under half an inch (1.2 centimeters) in diameter. The lock immediately stood apart for researchers because of its size and the metals used to make it. Experts identified it as the miniature version of locks made in the Roman provinces during the third and fourth centuries.

(Image Source: LWL | Photo by S. Brentführer)
The discovery of a gold lock came as a surprise to the metal detectorist. "I could hardly believe it myself when I held the find in my hand, because such Roman locks are usually much larger and are made of iron or bronze parts," Fried said. Experts on the other hand were joyous to have such a rare commodity in their hands. "The golden miniature box lock is completely unique in Europe," said Michael Rind, director of archaeology for the Westphalia-Lippe Regional Association (LWL).
Researchers made the lock undergo a CT scan which unveiled several intricate details. The artifact comprised just the cylinder part of what was once a whole miniature lock, as per experts. Researchers believe the miniature lock must have had a chain and a key, which appears to be missing from the present arrangement. Restoration showcased that the core of the cylinder was made out of iron. Further examinations showcased that the lock was 1,600 years old.
1,600-year-old Roman padlock with spring mechanism discovered in Germany — and it's tiny | Live Science https://t.co/kdK0BobUUR
— roob (@roob62658287) February 1, 2025
To get a better look into the artifact, researchers utilized 3D neutron computed tomography (CT). In this method, neutrons in the place of X-rays are used to get a peep into dense objects like the gold lock mechanism. This test revealed that the lock functioned due to a collaboration between parts like pin, baseplate, spring, bolt, and guide rail. The lock appears to be almost complete in terms of internal apparatus, though some external damage was observed by experts. "Someone had obviously poked around in the lock at the time, probably to break it open or remove a blockage," Fried said.
Despite the external damage, researchers were able to create a large model of the lock with materials like brass and steel. Considering the location of this lock's discovery, experts speculated that such artifacts were possibly traded between Germany and Russia in the third century. Researchers believe these locks were made to secure wooden chests that were very similar to present-day jewelry boxes.
The Westphalia-Lippe Regional Association (LWL) has revealed the discovery of a gold and iron Roman-era box lock, unearthed in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.https://t.co/lnU1s0kJxu pic.twitter.com/OXMaAW0I9q
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LWL Cultural Director, Barbara Rüschoff-Parzinger believes the find is reflective of the high level of expertise practiced by the Roman artisans and workers of the time. Furthermore, she believes the discovery sheds light on the relationship of Westphalia elites of the third and fourth centuries with the Roman empire. Researchers are yet to figure out several aspects related to this lock, like its popularity within the community. "Was it a one-off or have similar precious miniatures simply not been found before?" Rind said. "We will continue to work on these and other questions."