From Newstead, Roxburghshire
This iron sword was found during excavations at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It is a native style, rather than Roman, sword which was used by auxiliary troops sometime between 80 and 100 AD.
The sword has Celtic-style fittings and a knob at the pommel. The sword is doubled over just below the hilt.
There were two classes of Roman soldiers: the elite legionary and the ordinary auxiliary soldier, each with its own particular type of equipment. Some of the auxiliaries were recruited locally, and used native weapons or equipment.
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