Revealed: The gory secret behind Mel Gibson’s Braveheart sword as iconic prop goes under the hammer

The claymore used by Mel Gibson in *Braveheart* has a concealed slit that was filled with fake blood to create the effect of blood spurting during battle scenes. The detail has emerged as the sword and Gibson’s costume from the 1995 film are set to be auctioned, with the items together potentially fetching up to £180,000.

The sword is estimated to sell for £40,000 to £80,000, while the costume, including armour and a tartan woollen shirt, has a guide price of £50,000 to £100,000. Auctioneer Propstore says the sword shows signs of on-set use, handling and age; the London auction runs from 4 to 6 December. *Braveheart* won five Oscars, including Best Picture.