CVC & Collectables proudly presents this 2nd Century BC Spain Gades AE27 bronze coin from Gades (modern-day Cádiz, Spain) is a striking example of Punic and Hellenistic influence on early Iberian coinage. Dating to the 2nd to 1st century BC, it features the mythological hero Heracles (or Melkart) and the iconic dual tuna design, symbolic of Gades’ wealth and seafaring economy. Graded XF (Extremely Fine) by NGC, this well-preserved specimen displays sharp detail and a bold strike—exceptional for a bronze coin of this age.
Coin Highlights:
- Region: Gades (Cádiz), Hispania (Ancient Spain)
- Date: 2nd–1st Century BC
- Denomination: AE27 (Bronze)
- Diameter: ~27 mm
- Composition: Bronze
- Grade: NGC XF (Extremely Fine) — Outstanding preservation with crisp details.
Obverse:
- Design: Head of Heracles (Greek counterpart of Melkart) facing right, wearing a lion skin headdress.
- Symbolism: Represents strength, divinity, and protection. Heracles/Melkart was the patron deity of Gades, linking Greek and Phoenician religious traditions.
Reverse:
- Design: Two tuna fish swimming horizontally, a crescent moon and dot symbol appear above or between.
- Interpretation: Tuna were a key export and economic staple of ancient Gades, and this design reflects both regional pride and religious symbolism.
Collectibility:
This 2nd Century BC Spain Gades AE27 NGC XF bronze coin is highly collectible due to its clear mythological imagery, regional economic symbolism (tuna), rare state of preservation in XF grade, and Cross-cultural significance (Phoenician-Greek-Roman fusion). Whether you collect ancient Iberian coinage, Hellenistic iconography, or simply love coins that tell the story of ancient trade and belief, this piece is a rich and fascinating artifact. Embark on a journey through time with ancient coins that span from 400 BC to AD 1055 at Chula Vista Coins. Explore a captivating collection of numismatic treasures that offer glimpses into civilizations long past. Uncover the allure of ancient history through this link: Ancient Coins
