Beyond rings and coins, the ancient world left behind figurines, fibulae, tools, and weapons, objects of daily life and ritual. This guide covers what is available, how to buy safely, and where to find authentic artifacts.
Looking for the real thing? Browse authenticated ancient artifacts, each piece one of one, individually authenticated, with documented provenance. For the background, see the guide to buying ancient artifacts.
Types of ancient artifacts
- Bronze figures & statuettes: deities, animals, and votive figures
- Fibulae (brooches): the safety-pins of antiquity, often beautifully worked
- Tools & weapons: knives, blades, and implements
- Pendants & amulets: protective and devotional
How to buy ancient artifacts safely
The rules are the same as for rings and coins: stable ancient patina, period-correct construction, honest condition reporting, a documented typology, and a written authenticity guarantee. Lawful export documentation matters for cross-border shipping.
At Aurora Antiqua, every piece is examined before listing and backed by a Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee, with free insured EU shipping. You can read our full method in our guide on how we authenticate ancient and medieval rings.
Browse authentic ancient artifacts
- Roman Bronze Fibula 'Lucius' (2nd c. AD): €580.00
- Roman Bronze Statue 'Equus Martialis' (1st c. BC-2nd c. AD): €1200.00
- Viking Iron Knife 'Gunnar' (9th-10th c. CE): €850.00
Frequently asked questions
Can you legally buy ancient artifacts?
Yes, lawfully exported ancient artifacts are legal to own and trade in most countries. Aurora ships with appropriate documentation and a written authenticity guarantee.
What kinds of ancient artifacts can I buy?
Aurora offers authentic Roman and ancient bronze figures, fibulae (brooches), tools, weapons, and small statues, alongside rings and coins.
How do I know an artifact is genuine?
Look for stable ancient patina, period-correct construction and wear, a documented typology match, and a written authenticity guarantee from the dealer.
Where can I buy authentic ancient artifacts and figurines?
Aurora Antiqua offers authenticated ancient artifacts, each researched and backed by a written Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee with free insured EU shipping.
More from Aurora Antiqua
References
- Bronze crossbow fibula (brooch), Roman, 4th century CE, Acc. 07.286.100, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
- SF-A79B96, Roman copper alloy and glass finger-ring from Norfolk, Portable Antiquities Scheme, British Museum
- Bronze disease, Conservation Wiki, American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works (AIC)
- Reproducing bronze archaeological patinas through intentional burial, Heliyon (Elsevier, Open Access)
- Apport de l'analyse statistique des produits de corrosion à la compréhension, Revue d'Archeometrie
- About us, International Association of Dealers in Ancient Art
- Code of Conduct, Antiquities Dealers' Association (ADA), UK
- Regulation (EU) 2019/880 on the introduction and the import of cultural goods, European Parliament and Council, EUR-Lex