Roman Signum and Signifier

[A_Volpe]

I would dare to say that there is a similar phenomenon with modern armies and their reverence for things like Unit and National Colors / Flags and Standards. Someone(s) has to make those items, starting from raw materials. A flag is just fabric and paint / color dye, but when it is presented to and adopted into that unit, it acquires a presence and significance that is placed on it. (in a similar if not identical way that the Signa was said to embody the Genius / Spirit of the Century, as the Aquila would embody the spirit of the entire Legion. Its damage or loss (and perhaps lack of reverence or respect inasmuch as the person tasked with carrying it) would be tremendously insulting and damaging)

Although, with the nationalistic movements and flag etiquette laws introduced after WW1, the "value" of things like flags seems to have changed a bit. The attitudes and reverences to standards and devices, and really any object with sentimental or significant importance, is a human thing.

As for the Late Republic period, when armies are being formed by a few individuals, i.e. Caesar, I don't know, does he mention how much he spent on supplying his Legions with standards?