Backing disc

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This bronze backing disc from a standard was found during excavations at the site of the Roman fort at Newstead in Roxburghshire. It would have had a picture of the emperor attached, then been mounted on a pole and carried as a standard.

The disc has a central concave section. It is unornamented.

Different groups within the Roman army possessed standards, which were highly prized. They had several functions: used as religious talismans, as markers when striking camp, and as rallying points when carried into battle.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-036-826-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.FRA 133
• Date: Between 80 and 100 AD
  
• Material: Bronze; three metal loops on back; without radial lines in central concavity
  Backing disc, standard
  
• Dimensions:
• What: Backing disc, standard
  
• Subject:
• Who: Newstead Collection
  
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Newstead
  
• Event:
• Description: Bronze backing disc from a standard, from Newstead
  
• References:
• Translations:
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