Name/Title
CaduseusDescription
The medical staff of Asklepios with a snake wrapped around it likely has its origin from the legends surrounding Greek mythology and is probably the first recognized medical symbol. In about the seventh century another image, the caduceus, became linked to healing and it is the symbol most associated with medicine today. This familiar emblem is a staff with wings at the top and entwined snakes below, and was initially the magic wand given to Hermes (or the Roman god, Mercury) by Apollo in order to help guide the souls of the dead to the lower world. Hermes was an ambassador of peace and threw his magical rod between two fighting snakes which then stopped their battle and wrapped themselves around the rod. The wings were added as a result of the image of Hermes as a swift messenger.
The caduceus became the symbol of medicine when it was adopted by the Army medical service in 1902. Ironically not only is Hermes the messenger god but he is the protector of merchants, thieves, liars, and gamblers.Condition
Overall Condition
Very GoodDate Examined
Aug 7, 2026Create Date
August 7, 2026Update Date
August 7, 2026