The Scottish Sword and Scabbard

The Sword of State was another generous papal gift, presented to James IV from Julius II (who commissioned Michelangelo to paint the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel) in 1507.
Almost 1.4 metres (4.5 feet) in length, the silver-gilt handle is decorated with oak leaves and acorns (symbols of the Risen Christ), and at the bottom of the handle are two stylised oak leaves overlapping the blade.
The blade is etched with the figures of St. Peter and St. Paul and Pope Julius' inscription.
Legend has it that the break in the blade is due to the sword being snapped in two in 1652 so that it could be smuggled away from Cromwell and his troops.
The sword has a scabbard of wood covered in dark red velvet and mounted with silver gilt, and a belt of woven silk and gold thread decorated with the arms of Pope Julius.
The sword was subsequently used in the ceremonial connected with the Order of the Thistle, until the 300th anniversary of the Order in 1987. The sword and scabbard are kept with the crown and sceptre in Edinburgh Castle.