Catalog
| Issuer | Uncertain Siculo-Punic mint (Punic Sicily) |
|---|---|
| Year | 320 BC - 300 BC |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tetradrachm (4) |
| Currency | Attic drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 17.24 g |
| Diameter | 26 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | Jenkins P3#222, de Luynes#1463, McClean#3045, Gulbenkian#374, BostonMFA#495, Hirsch#839, CNP#264, HGC 2#289 |
| Obverse description | Head of Tanit left, wearing wreath of grain leaves, triple-pendant earring and pearl necklace; in field to left, dolphin swimming downwards above caduceus. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | |
| Obverse lettering | |
| Reverse description | Head of horse left; palm tree to right; MM (in Punic) below. |
| Reverse script | |
| Reverse lettering | 𐤌𐤌 |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage | ND (320 BC - 300 BC) |
| Numisquare ID | 1109004968 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Tetradrachm was struck by an uncertain Siculo-Punic mint between 320 and 300 BC, a tumultuous period of Carthaginian struggle for dominance in Sicily against Greek powers, particularly Agathocles of Syracuse. These issues were vital for funding Carthage's mercenary armies and maintaining economic influence. The "uncertain" mint suggests mobile operations, likely supporting military campaigns. These coins facilitated trade and paid soldiers, reflecting intense geopolitical pressures in the Western Mediterranean.
Artistry: While the specific engraver remains anonymous, this Tetradrachm exemplifies the sophisticated Siculo-Punic artistic tradition. This style masterfully blends Carthaginian iconography with refined Hellenistic Greek aesthetics. Typical designs feature a prominent head on the obverse, often interpreted as Tanit assimilated with Persephone or Arethusa, rendered with exquisite detail. The reverse commonly depicts a horse or horse's head, frequently with a palm tree, powerful symbols of Carthage. The execution reflects high artistic standards, likely influenced by master Greek die-cutters.
Technical/Grading: Struck in silver to a weight of 17.24 grams and a diameter of 26 mm, this Tetradrachm adheres to the Attic weight standard. Optimal strikes exhibit full detail on high points, such as the hair and facial features of the obverse deity, and the mane and musculature of the reverse horse. Careful examination reveals flan preparation and strike centering. While ancient minting often resulted in minor off-centering or die wear, well-preserved examples showcase sharp relief and a lustrous surface, indicative of a strong strike from fresh dies.