Polished bone handle from a legionary sword, or gladius, complete in length but two thirds incomplete laterally. There are three pronounced intermediate ridges acting as finger grips and a circular channel for the tang visible on the broken rear face. The cross section indicates that this is manufactured from a cattle bone (bos metatarsal). Although some handles of this type are found on long swords, more examples are associated with gladius swords.
This short stabbing sword was part of the equipment of a legionary soldier and would have been used in close combat. The handle is well-designed to fit comfortably in the hand in order to make its use easier.