The Spanish Castulo AE coin from around 150–100 BC is a bronze issue from the ancient Iberian city of Castulo (modern-day Linares, in the province of Jaén, southern Spain). This city was an important center in the region of Baetica and played a strategic role in trade and warfare during the Iberian and later Roman periods.
The typical obverse of these Castulo bronzes features a diademed male head facing right, often interpreted as a local deity or ruler. The reverse commonly shows a bull advancing right with a crescent above, although other reverse types—such as sphinxes or animals—are known from different emission phases. The legend sometimes includes the Iberian script spelling the city’s name, Kastilo.
The specific coin referenced, weighing 4.39 grams and measuring 17 mm, is certified NGC Fine 5/5 (strike) – 2/5 (surface), indicating a strong strike with moderate surface roughness or patina typical for ancient bronze. It was recently featured in Heritage Auctions’ September 2025 sale within the Merrill A. Gibson Collection of Ancient Coins, confirming its authenticity and collectible pedigree.
In the ancient coin market, small Castulo bronzes like this in Fine condition typically sell from $50 to $100, depending on completeness of details, patina, and certification. Larger specimens or better-preserved examples can exceed this range. The combination of Iberian artistry and early Roman influence adds further historical appeal.
In summary, the Spain, Castulo AE (17 mm, 4.39 g, circa 150–100 BC) is a historically rich bronze coin from Baetica featuring a diademed male portrait and a typological reverse rooted in Iberian symbolism. Its NGC Fine 5/5–2/5 example represents a collectible and affordable artifact from an important crossroads of ancient Mediterranean civilization.