Coin theft police look overseas

The coins were stolen from a house near Peebles

Police investigating the theft of a collection of rare historical Scottish coins have expanded their investigation to overseas sales outlets.

Officers have contacted a number of coin houses in Europe and America, in the event that they come up for sale on the international market.

The collection, owned by the renowned numismatist Lord Stewartby, were stolen from his home in the Scottish Borders.

Lothian and Borders Police described the investigation as complex.

More than 1,000 coins were stolen from Lord and Lady Stewartby's home, in Broughton near Peebles.

The unique collection - valued at more than £500,000 - features pieces dating back to 1136, when the very first Scottish coins were minted.

Police said they have had some positive response from the public to appeals for information.