Roman Passport

• The Roman Passport was not a Booklet like today, but the traveller carried either a Letter, conferring authority to travel from his Patron or from the State, or he wore a unique Roman Signet Ring.
• As most people were illiterate in the Ancient World, the design of an embossed ring was immediately recognisable and confirmed the authority of the bearer.

The History of Signet Rings

• Mesopotamia
  • In c.3,500 BCE, the fist cylinder seals were made in Mesopotamia to confirm the owner’s authenticity. When impressed into clay or wax, the design was revealed.
• Ancient Egypt
  • In c.3,000 BCE, The Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs and senior Officials had Signet Rings, a unique hieroglyph representing an animal or a God set on the head of a ring. Each ring was unique to its owner, and they have been found buried with them in their tombs.
• Ancient Greece
  • In c.600 BCE the Ancient Greeks produced their own version of the signet ring as did the Etruscans.
• Roman Empire
  • In 146 BCE The Roman Republic conquered Greece, and the Roman Signet Ring became the symbol of authority for Roman State Officials throughout the subsequent Roman Empire.
  • The ring was made of Gold or Silver with a gemstone Intaglio set in the head.