As

Historical Context: This As, issued by the Iberian city of Ilurco (200-151 BC), marks a crucial period of Roman expansion into Hispania. Ilurco, likely in modern Granada, was among many indigenous communities minting bronze coinage following the Second Punic War. These issues, adopting Roman weight standards like the As, maintained local economies and asserted municipal identity amidst increasing Roman political and cultural influence across the Iberian Peninsula.

Artistry: The unknown engraver of this Ilurcan As worked within the Hispano-Roman stylistic school, blending indigenous Iberian artistic traditions with Hellenistic influences. The obverse typically features a robust male head, often bearded, perhaps a local hero or deity. The reverse commonly depicts a horseman, a potent Iberian symbol, often holding a palm branch, with "ILURCO" in Iberian script. The style is direct, powerful, and characteristic of Iberian numismatic art.

Technical/Grading: This bronze As, weighing 18.5 grams and measuring 28.5 mm, reflects typical Iberian provincial minting. High-points for wear include the hair, nose, and beard on the obverse portrait, and the rider's head and horse's musculature on the reverse. Strike quality varies, often showing off-centering or flatness due to inconsistent flan preparation and striking pressure. Patination and surface preservation are critical grading factors for ancient bronze.