From Newstead, Roxburghshire
Add to albumThis 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:
National Museums Scotland
Project description View all records in project
- Ref: National Museums Scotland X.FRA 134
- Date: Between 80 and 100 AD
- Material: Iron
Sword, auxiliary / spatha
- Dimensions: 24.50" L; tang 6.00" L; blade 1.38" at hilt
- What: Sword, auxiliary / spatha
- Subject:
- Who: Newstead Collection
- Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
- Event:
- Description: Roman auxiliary sword or spatha, from Newstead
- References:
- Curle, J. A Roman frontier post and its people: the fort of Newstead. Glasgow: MacLehose, 1911, p. 183, Pl. XXXIV, No. 6.
- Translations:
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