Copper-alloy, silvered, 39.95 grams, 235 mm. 10th-12th century AD. A very large sturdy dress pin of tapering lozengiform section. The upper 70 mm is flattened to accept a cruciform decorative mount, riveted to the shaft. The lobed cross is decorated with embossed concentric circles. Such pins were used by wealthy females to secure outer garments at the chest, often with a chain attached. Reference: cf. Griciuviene, E. Ziemgaliai - The Semigallians, Latvian National Museum, 2005, items 225-6. Good very fine condition. Provenance: from an old European collection.