Archaeology

This collection comprises both archaeological material and the numismatics collections. The Archaeological collections currently span the periods from Scotland's earliest settlers in the Mesolithic period (c.8500-4000 BC) to the 19th century. The strength of these collections lies in its comprehensive coverage of Roman Cramond and the medieval and post-medieval burghs of Leith and the Old Town.

The numismatics collection includes coins recovered from excavations (from Roman denarii to English groats) in addition to Scottish coins, Scottish trade and communion tokens and a few commemorative medals.

Applied Art

The collection comprises five main elements: (1) Edinburgh and Canongate silver from the seventeenth century to the present day (2) Edinburgh and Leith glass from the late eighteenth century to the present day (3) Scottish Pottery particularly from south-east Scotland dating from the late eighteenth century to the present day (4) Edinburgh and Canongate long-case clocks, other clocks and watches (5) A small collection of Scottish jewellery from the seventeenth century to the present day.

Social History

This collection encompasses four main areas: (1) Community life, incuding the Haig collection which documents the life and military career of Field Marshal Earl Haig; (2) Domestic and family life from medieval times to the present day; (3) Personalia and costume, including civic and ceremonial costume and examples of working and occupational dress; (4) Working life, including trade union, political and friendly society banners and regalia.