carthage-c-160-149-bc-item
DenominationDouble Shekel
Country / EmpireCarthage
Obverse DesignHead of Tanit facing left, wearing a wreath of grain ears, pendant earring, and necklace. Often with symbols in the field.
Reverse DesignHorse standing right, often with a Punic letter or symbol below or in the field. Sometimes a palm tree in the background.
Historical Context
This coin was issued by Carthage during a period leading up to and possibly the very beginning of the Third Punic War (149-146 BC). The designs featuring the goddess Tanit and a horse are characteristic of Carthaginian coinage, reflecting their Phoenician heritage and military strength (cavalry). The issuance of silver coinage indicates continued economic activity despite increasing Roman pressure.
