Information AboutAquilifer |
| CATEGORIES ABOUT AQUILIFER | |
| military ranks of ancient rome | |
| ancient roman titles | |
| SHOPPER'S DELIGHT | |
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An aquilifer was the Standard bearer of a Roman Legion . The name derives from the type of standard, '' Aquila '' meaning " Eagle ", which was the universal type used since 104 BC ; before that time the Wolf , Boar , Bull and Horse were also used. The standard was the most important possession of the legion and its loss was a terrible disgrace. The aquilifer's position was accordingly one of enormous prestige, and he was ranked immediately below the Centurion s and above the Optio s, receiving twice the pay of an ordinary Legionary . Unlike other standard bearers (such as Signifer s), the aquilifer probably did not wear an animal skin and went bareheaded (no contemporary depiction of an aquilifer shows him with a headdress or helmet). He carried a small circular shield called ''parma'' that could be strapped on if his hands were already full with the standard and a weapon. SEE ALSO |