From Newstead, Roxburghshire
000-100-036-827-C © National Museums Scotland |
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Sword
This iron sword was found at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It would have formed part of the equipment of a member of the auxiliary cavalry between 80 and 100 AD.
The long, narrow sword is a type known as a spatha. It has a midrib and well-preserved tang.
There were two classes of Roman soldiers: the elite legionary and the ordinary auxiliary soldier, each with its own type of equipment. In the late 2nd century, the auxiliary cavalry began to carry a longer sword than ones used by legionaries.
Record details
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Online ID: |
000-100-036-827-C |
Image Rights Holder: |
National Museums Scotland |
Project: |
0098: National Museums Scotland
Project description | View all records in project |
Ref: |
National Museums Scotland X.FRA 134 |
Date: |
Between 80 and 100 AD
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Material: |
Iron
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Dimensions: |
24.50" L; tang 6.00" L; blade 1.38" at hilt
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What: |
Sword, auxiliary / spatha
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Subject: |
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Who: |
Newstead Collection
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Where: |
Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
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Event: |
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Description: |
Roman auxiliary sword or spatha, from Newstead
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References: |
- Curle, J. A Roman frontier post and its people: the fort of Newstead. Glasgow: MacLehose, 1911, p. 183, Pl. XXXIV, No. 6.
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