Steelyard and weights

A steelyard is a type of weighing apparatus, where goods are hung from one end and a weight is slid along the arm until the steelyard stays horizontal. This steelyard and weights were found at the site of the Roman fort at Elginhaugh in Midlothian.

The steelyard and weights are well preserved, although a ring at the top of the steelyard is broken off and the weights are chipped.

The Roman world had a highly standardised system for weighing goods. Objects were weighed either on a balance from which pans were suspended or on a steelyard. Most steelyard weights are plain, as these examples, but some are ornamental.

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