03-05-2014, 05:02 PM
I would agree with you, except that 700 men is quite a formidable number still, especially considering the Palatina units supposedly numbered 500.
I have to personally say that you cannot accurately measure or determine the strength of any unit of this era based on Coello's work.
Based on the Panopolis Papyri (whose numbers are controversial), Zozimus, and Ammianus, the estimate of roughly 1200 men for SOME Legions seems to make sense. However, the Panopolis Papyri also indicates an approximate strength of 1700 men for III Heraclea.
I think you're seeing several unit strengths for the same unit type.
I have to personally say that you cannot accurately measure or determine the strength of any unit of this era based on Coello's work.
Based on the Panopolis Papyri (whose numbers are controversial), Zozimus, and Ammianus, the estimate of roughly 1200 men for SOME Legions seems to make sense. However, the Panopolis Papyri also indicates an approximate strength of 1700 men for III Heraclea.
I think you're seeing several unit strengths for the same unit type.
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