Hispania, Secaisa As 130 - 72 a.C.

Extraordinary bronze As from the historic Celtiberian mint of Sekaisa (Segeda city, present-day province of Zaragoza), minted during the city’s apogee period between 130 and 72 BCE, before its destruction in the Sertorian Wars. The obverse shows a robust male portrait looking to the right, perfectly flanked by two dolphins (one in front of the face and the other curved behind the neck), an iconographic detail of great interest. The reverse displays the classic scene of the lance-bearing rider in full gallop. The most remarkable feature of this specimen is that the Iberian inscription "SEKAISA" in the exergue is completely visible and sharp, something not common in these issues. It preserves a natural dark patina that is very attractive. With a large 25.5 mm diameter and an exact weight of 8.61 grams, it is a fundamental piece with strong relief that will connect any collection with Celtiberian origins.