Great Discoveries: 1,800-Year-Old Amulet Could Change the History of Christianity – WorthPoint

Recently, an archaeologist unearthed a silver amulet in Frankfurt, Germany. The amulet is believed to be approximately 1,800 years old.

The amulet contained a 1.37-inch silver scroll that had 18 lines of Latin text written on it. This text could change the way historians view Christianity in the Roman Empire.

Researchers used computer tomography to analyze the amulet and create a 3D model of it. The model was then scanned piece by piece, which helped researchers decipher the inscription.

Here is the transcription of what’s now being called the “Frankfurt Silver Inscription”:

(In the name?) of Saint Titus.

Holy, holy, holy!

In the name of Jesus Christ, Son of God!

The Lord of the World

resists with [strength?]

all attacks(?)/setbacks(?).

The god(?) grants well-being

Admission.

This rescue device(?) protects

the person who is

surrenders to the will

of the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s Son,

since before Jesus Christ

all knees bow: the heavenly ones,

the earthly and

the underground, and every tongue

confess (to Jesus Christ).

The Frankfurt Inscription is a “scientific sensation,” Frankfurt Mayro Mike Josef said. “The history of Christianity in Frankfurt and far beyond will have to be turned back by around 50 to 100 years,” he noted. “We can be proud of this, especially now, so close to Christmas.”

The inscription highlights the rise of Christianity north of the Alps at the time of the Roman Empire, Popular Mechanics noted. During this period, it was dangerous to practice Christianity in the Roman Empire, as the emperor Nero would punish Christians with death or a date at the Coliseum.

Prior to the discovery, all artifacts relating to Christianity in the Roman Empire date from the fourth century A.D. However, the amulet was found in a grave between 230 and 270 A.D. As such, it represents the oldest piece of proof of Christianity north of the Alps.

Those who want to view different types of ancient amulets can see several examples in the WorthPoint Price Guide.

Dan Kobialka is a self-employed content writer and editor with about a decade of experience. He produces content across a wide range of industries, including antiques, insurance, and real estate. To learn more about Dan, please visit his website. 

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