Mercury / Hermes , bronze sculpture, reproduction of 16th century work by Giambologna in National Museum, Florence. Mercury (Hermes), messenger of gods, and deity of wealth, trade and travelers. He traveled using winged sandals, “tataria.” The caduceus (Greek, “herald’s staff”) was carried by Mercury. While the caduceus is used as a symbol for medicine, this is a misappropriation. The symbol for medicine should be the “rod of Asclepius,” which has one snake and no wings.