The scientific investigation involves the examination of copper alloy nails dated back to
the Roman Age. The artifacts were retrieved from a shipwreck discovered offshore Elba
island (Italy). Further carbon dating measurements indicated the origin between 140 and
300 AD. This work includes a brief overview of the ship’s routes and fortunes in order to
give some context to the metallographic investigations. The experimental procedure
involves the use of both Optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy (OM and SEM) coupled
with EDS and EBSD probes. The attention has been focused on the metallurgical features of
the nails with the intent of casting some light on the metalwork processes of the Roman
Age. The scientific trials revealed a “brazed” joint, which allowed to learn more about
the applications of this technique during this historical period. In addition, the
textural analysis yielded a strong work-hardening, evidence of an intense cold shaping
procedure in use by the Roman blacksmiths.