10 Euros Carthaginian 1½ Shekel of Hasdrubal

Reverse

Reverse of a Hispanic-Carthaginian 1½ Shekel of Hasdrubal (Elephant to right).

Edge

Reeded

Comment

Under the name 'Numismatic Jewels', in 2008 a new series of collector coins begins in which unique pieces of Hispanic numismatics will be reproduced, and which will continue over the next few years. This third edition in the Numismatic Jewels series is dedicated to the Visigothic Tremissis of Suntila and Leovigildo and to the Hispanic-Carthaginian Shekel.
This coin was minted by the Punic general Hasdrubal the Fair in 228 BC, immediately after the foundation of the city. In contrast to the coinage attributed to Hamilcar, this type makes no reference to the traditional naval power of Carthage, instead adopting the African elephant as the reverse type. Evidently not a war-elephant (note the absence of either a mahout or a fighting tower) it is perhaps best interpreted as a symbol of Carthage or Barcid power in general. Indeed it is known that Hasdrubal favoured diplomacy and the demanding of hostages to further expand his influence in Spain; the club-wielding Herakles-Melqart implies the threat of force rather than its open display.

Interesting fact

Price

Date	Mintage	VG	F	VF	XF	AU	UNC
2011 M	10000	-	-	-	-	-	-

Values in the table are based on evaluations by sales realized on Internet platforms. They serve as an indication only for 10 Euros (Carthaginian 1½ Shekel of Hasdrubal) 2011 coin.