Semis

Historical Context: This Semis was issued by the ancient Iberian city of Asido (modern-day Medina Sidonia, Spain) between 200 BC and 101 BC. This era followed the Second Punic War, marking increasing Roman control over the Iberian Peninsula. While Rome solidified its power, local Iberian communities like Asido maintained autonomy, reflected in their continued bronze coinage. These issues, often denominated similarly to Roman currency, were crucial for local commerce, bridging indigenous Iberian culture and the burgeoning Roman economic system.

Artistry: The anonymous engravers of Asido's coinage worked within the Ibero-Punic stylistic tradition, incorporating Hellenistic and early Roman influences. Typical Iberian bronze Semisses from this period commonly feature a male head, perhaps a local deity or hero, on the obverse. The reverse frequently depicts an animal, such as a bull, or other indigenous symbols, accompanied by the city's name in Iberian script. The artistry, often robust, distinctively captures the issuer's cultural identity.

Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, weighing 6.8 grams and measuring 25.0 millimeters, this Semis is a substantial local currency piece. For grading, key high-points for wear include hair, facial features, and prominent musculature on the obverse device, and extremities or horns of any animal on the reverse. Strike quality of Iberian bronzes from this period can vary. Well-preserved examples will exhibit a centered strike, full detail on both devices, and clear legends, despite often irregular flans or minor surface imperfections inherent to the bronze striking process.