Legio V Iovia

One of the new legions raised by Diocletian at the end of the 3rd century and was still in service at the beginning of the 5th century. To reflect its newly raised status I have depicted them all in spangenhelms, which appears to have become most common in the 3rd century. The shield design is from the Notitia Dignitatum, whether they would have had this design earlier I don't know, but I like it. The front ranks are armed with spears whilst the rear ranks are preparing to throw spiculums, Vegetius implies that this had replaced the earlier heavier pilum.

All the figures are from A and A miniatures, the shields are from Footsore Miniatures with LBMS shield transfers.

 To even the sides up a little I have also painted up another warband of Goths to face them.

The figures are a mix of Footsore, Foundry and Westwind with the bulk being from the Foundry, Casting Room Miniatures Germanic range, shields again from Footsore Miniatures painted by me and with the odd LBMS ones.

Both will see battle tomorrow, will new unit syndrome strike? We will see.

TTFN