Sale: CNG 75, Lot: 1500. Estimate $1500.  Closing Date: Wednesday, 23 May 2007.  Sold For $1300. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

ROMAN. Imperial. Gold Finger Ring. 3rd century AD. Heavy angled plain gold band with appliqué of clasped right hands (dextrarum iunctio) in ornate rectangular frame. 16mm in diameter (inner measurement). Choice condition and heavy for type.

While the symbolism of the clasped right hands, or dextrarum iunctio was generally representative of marriage, this symbol has also appeared elsewhere, particularly the coins of Balbinus and Pupienus, as a sign of harmony, or concordia between military or political individuals. It is quite possible that this ring may have served that purpose.