Late Roman troops: \"normal\" vs. elite

[markusaurelius]

I think that is a hard question to answer, however it may be more about the level of decoration than the actual armor type. I personally think Squamata was considered a more elite type of armor, probably because it looks more "elaborate" than mail did (IMO). In regards to decoration, one should consider gilded and decorated/patterned silver sheet on the helmet, instead of just iron. The type of crest, and or the addition of jewels to the helmet would also make a difference on the status of the wearer.

Two soldiers side by side both wearing scale and a ridge helmet could look significantly different just based on the level of quality and decoration in their armor. A soldier with a golden crested helmet, silver and brass scale shirt, large images on their tunic, richly decorated spatha scabbard and large details painted on their shield would certainly look more elite than a soldier with the "same" armor, but all basic in appearance.