Flags rescued from capture at the battle of Waterloo at the cost of five British lives will go on display for the last time before they are permanently archived for preservation.
Two rare examples of the regimental colours of the 3rd Battalion of The Royal Scots, the oldest regiment in the British Army, will go on display at Edinburgh Castle to mark the 200th anniversary of the battle which took place on June 18 1815.
Four officers and a sergeant major died saving the colours from being captured during the battle.
The regimental honours depict their own and the king's colours, with the royal cypher of King George III, representing honour and traditions as a symbol for rallying during the battle.
The six by six foot painted silk flags have become so fragile with age that this display will mark the last time that they will be available for public viewing.
Following this last showing, in partnership with The Royal Scots Regimental Museum based within the walls of Edinburgh Castle, the colours will be permanently archived to ensure their preservation.
Lorna Ewan, head of visitor experience, content and learning for Historic Scotland, said: "The Royal Scots regiment has a long association with Edinburgh Castle and it is remarkable that these colours, which were once carried onto the battlefield at Waterloo, will be displayed for the last time, during this, the year which commemorates the 200th anniversary of the battle.
"The display, which will be in Edinburgh Castle's Great Hall, will offer our visitors a final opportunity to view these unique examples of Scottish regimental colours."
Colonel Robert Watson, trustee of The Royal Scots Regimental Museum, added: "At more than 200 years old, these colours, belonging to the oldest formed regiment in the British Army, are incredibly fragile objects.
"The display will not only mark the bicentenary of the battle, it will also be the first time for a great number of generations that many people will be able to look upon these exceptional artefacts before they are retired from public view."
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