Shield boss (Fragment)

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This fragmentary iron shield boss was found during excavations at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It was used between 80 and 180 AD.

Little remains of this sub-conical boss, and what does is in poor condition. Much of the flanged plate which fastened the boss to the shield survives, with five rivet holes.

Roman shields were generally made of wood, covered with leather and metal fittings including the central boss. Auxiliary soldiers preferred oval shields with circular bosses, as in this case, while legionary soldiers preferred rectangular shields.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-036-850-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 166
• Date: Between 80 and 180 AD
  
• Material: Iron
  Shield boss
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Shield boss
  
• Subject:
• Who: Newstead Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
  
• Event:
• Description: Iron shield boss from Newstead
  
• References:
  • Curle, J. A Roman frontier post and its people: the fort of Newstead. Glasgow: MacLehose, 1911, p. 181, Pl. XXXIV, 3. 
• Translations:
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