Reliable and reproducible polishing of lead samples for metallographic study is difficult to achieve, since smearing and distortion of the polished surface can easily mask the microstructure of the lead. A practical method is presented employing etch/polish reagents combined with colloidal silica. Final etching can be achieved using either etch/polish methods or by immersion in acidified glycerol etchant. An example of the use of this method in the examination of the microstructure of a lead sheet from the Roman period is discussed.