18k Gold Celtiberian Coin Pendant
These pendants are replicas of an ancient (~210 BC) silver Celtiberian coin. The replicas are hand poured, solid gold, using the even more ancient method of sand casting. The setting is hand-milled and fabricated, blackened sterling silver.
Fully hand made, one at a time, these intriguing pieces have an authentic, truly ancient feel.
The gold:
This solid 18k gold coin was alloyed in-house to create the subdued, buttery hue that 18k is cherished for. The cast came out crisp and clean, with sharp details, lending this piece an air of beguiling dignity.
This design is available in 22 and 24k, please inquire for up to date pricing.
The exact pendant in the photo is the one you will receive.
Shipping: Complimentary Priority shipping is included, a signature from an adult is required.
More about the original coin:
The original coin comes from ancient Numantia, a thriving Celtic stronghold in what is now Central Spain. This run of coins were minted during the second Punic War, around 210 BC, in an effort to aid Carthage in their defense against Rome's wars of imperialist aggression and expansion. These efforts would eventually fail, and this is why Carthage, and Celtiberian people unfortunately no longer exist in the Mediterranean!
Iberian horses, however, still live in Spain to this very day, looking much the same as they did in 210 BC. The same lances are still used to manage cattle, today called Garrocha poles, and incidentally the term "cow poke" in US vernacular comes from this same piece of equipment. This coin, with accurate age and provenance, sheds some clear light on the cultural and regional origins of the Iberian horse phenotype, and even a term we generally think of as distinctly part of America.
Ancient coins are fascinating portals into the past, and this one is my favorite, to date. While I created this piece in particular for Iberian horse enthusiasts, this piece is a very special treat for anyone with an interest in ancient history with some of the most stunning artwork I have ever seen on an ancient coin.