Linchpin

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A linchpin is a pin inserted through an axle to keep a wheel in place. This bronze example on an iron shank was found at Cairngryfe in Lanarkshire. It dates from the first four centuries AD.

Only a little of the iron shank is preserved, but the rest of the linchpin is in good condition. There are traces of wear on the head's edge.

Entire carts or wagons from this period rarely survive. Often all that is left are metal fittings and bindings. Sometimes the fittings, even of necessary items like linchpins, were decorated.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-041-065-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.HH 465
• Date: Between 0 and 400 AD
  
• Material: Bronze; flaring circular base
  
• Dimensions: 3.00" H; base 1.78" D
  
• What:
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Lanarkshire, Pettinain, Cairngryffe Hill
  
• Event:
• Description: Bronze vase-headed linchpin from Cairngryffe Hill, Lanarkshire
  
• References:
  • MacGregor, Morna. Early Celtic art in North Britain. Leicester: Leicester University Press, 1976, vol. 1, pp. 49, 73; vol. 2, no. 128. 
• Translations:
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