ROM173C Signifer of the Praetorian Guard

The standard bearer (signifer) carrying the centurial standard. The signifer carried the signum, a spear shaft decorated with medallions and often topped with an open hand. The open hand symbolized the oath of loyalty taken by the soldiers. The signifer was also responsible for the financial administration of the unit, including the pay and savings of those in the unit, and was paid twice the basic wage of a regular soldier.