Bronze Age sword goes on public display for first time after painstaking conservation
Last updated 5th Jul 2026
A 3,000-year-old Bronze Age sword discovered in the Scottish Borders more than a century ago has gone on public display for the first time following years of meticulous conservation work.
The rare weapon, unearthed near Leadburn in Peeblesshire in 1890, is one of the centrepieces of Scotland's First Warriors, a new exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh.
The sword is an exceptionally rare example of a Bronze Age weapon made entirely from bronze, including its hilt. While most swords from the period featured handles crafted from bone, horn or wood, all-bronze examples were reserved for individuals of high status.
When the sword was discovered, its bronze hilt had broken into several pieces. Conservators at National Museums Scotland carried out painstaking restoration work to carefully reassemble the fragments, creating an almost invisible repair that has restored the weapon to its original appearance.
Bethan Bryan, Artefact Conservator at National Museums Scotland, said: "The remarkable sword from Leadburn paints an incredible picture of the lives of warriors and communities living in Scotland thousands of years ago. These objects were symbols of status but also represent the devastating impact of conflict on society.
"Conservation of the Leadburn sword has returned it to its original state and Scotland's First Warriors offers a rare chance to encounter this treasured object up close."
The exhibition explores the emergence of organised conflict during Scotland's Bronze Age, examining how prehistoric communities fought, why warfare developed, and the lasting impact conflict had on society.
Alongside the Leadburn sword, visitors will be able to see internationally significant archaeological discoveries from across Scotland, including the Carnoustie Hoard and the Beith shield, many of which are being displayed together for the first time.
Scotland's First Warriors runs at the National Museum of Scotland on Chambers Street, Edinburgh, until May 16th, 2027. Admission is free.
Meanwhile, a rare medieval comb discovered during excavations at Jedburgh Abbey in the 1980s has returned to public display following conservation work.
The intricately carved walrus ivory comb, believed to date from the late 11th or early 12th century, is now back on show alongside several other medieval artefacts at Jedburgh Abbey Visitor Centre, where a new display tells the story of the excavation that uncovered them.
Dr Alice Blackwell, Senior Curator of Medieval Archaeology and History at NMS, said: “These objects provide a rich and wonderful snapshot of life in the medieval abbey. They are nationally significant items, and it is fantastic to see them return to display having had the care that is required to keep fragile treasures safe for future generations.”
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