Sword pommel (Piece)

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This antler sword pommel was found at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It was used by a member of the auxiliary infantry between 80 and 100 AD.

The top of the sword fitted into the slot of the pommel. It is broken.

There were two classes of Roman soldiers: the elite legionary and the ordinary auxiliary soldier, each with its own type of equipment. Auxiliary troops were recruited from the populations of conquered countries. As a result, their equipment varied widely.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-036-838-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 148
• Date: Between 80 and 100 AD
  
• Material: Deerhorn; imperfect
  Pommel
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Pommel
  
• Subject:
• Who: Newstead Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
  
• Event:
• Description: Antler pommel from Newstead
  
• References:
  • Curle, J. A Roman frontier post and its people: the fort of Newstead. Glasgow: MacLehose, 1911, p 315, Pl. LXXXIV, 10. 
• Translations:
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