This ring with decoration of a palm leaf etched into the bezel is one of the more personal finds to have been excavated from the Lunt Roman Fort at Baginton, just south of Coventry.

The ring is made of bronze with silver or tin coating to make it look more valuable than it really was.
The palm leaf signifies 'victory', which may mean it was worn by a soldier wanting good luck from the gods. Some gladiators who won their fights were awarded palm leaves and a ring would be a permanent way of displaying your victory. Perhaps a Gladiator turned soldier had worn this ring?

It was made to fit a man's finger and may have been worn on the little finger as a sign of victory and status. It is missing part of the back of the ring and no doubt is the reason it was thrown away or accidentally lost. Perhaps the wearer realised it was not silver?

The 'X' either side of the palm leaf may have a special meaning or be part of the design. Perhaps the ring belonged to a soldier in the twentieth (XX) Legion?
The XIIII Gemina and XX Legions were those who fought Boudica's rebels and won - possibly at High Cross near Mancetter. For its part in this action, Legio XX was awarded the titles Valeria Victrix, meaning "Valiant and Victorious".
You can find out more fascinating facts about the Roman history of the Lunt by visiting the Lunt Fort to see the ring yourself.