Roman Ballista Stone Projectile

Roman Empire, c. 100–300 AD

A compelling and rare example of Roman artillery ammunition: a hand-worked brown-and-cream stone, roughly spherical with a subtly oval profile and an honest, tactile surface. The piece bears obvious tool marks and pock-scored faces from being knapped to shape—evidence of fast, utilitarian manufacture likely carried out by camp labour. Ballista stones were standardized for weight and shape to ensure predictable flight when launched from torsion-powered stone-throwers; this example still conveys that urgent, martial function.

Historically, the Romans adopted and refined Greek artillery technology—torsion bundles of sinew or hair powered the arms of the machines—so these projectiles were part of a sophisticated siege and field artillery system capable of devastating antipersonnel and structural effects. As an archaeological object, this stone is a direct, visceral link to ancient warfare: tactile, authentic, and evocative.

Good condition. Intact, typical surface abrasion, evident tool marks and minor impact chips consistent with original use and long burial/exposure. Size approx. 7,6cm x 7,5cm x 6,2cm. 

Provenance: British private collection.

For a similar example see:

Roman stone ballista ball, Amgueddfa Cymru – Museum Wales, Accession Number: 32.60/9.4 (https://museum.wales/collections/online/object/d6f74354-f2a4-3f3f-8dad-fafa33ab8841/Roman-stone-ballista-ball/)