Carthaginian Coin | Bronze Shekel

There are few ancient civilizations more iconic than that of the Phoenicians - an ancient civilization of seafaring traders and skilled navigators originating in the Eastern Mediterranean around 1500 to 300 BC. Carthaginian traded extensively across the Mediterranean and used these very coins as their medium of exchange. The coins not only facilitated commerce but also played a role in projecting the wealth and influence of Carthage.

On the obverse of the coins, Carthaginian coins depict the image the Carthaginian goddess Tanit. Tanit, often called "Lady of Carthage," was associated with motherhood and life, represented by the iconic "Tanit symbol" of a triangle, circle, and horizontal line. The reverse will typically feature symbolic recurring Carthaginian motifs such as horses, elephants, or the iconic palm tree, reflecting the region's agricultural and trading heritage. 

Tanit and Baal Hammon were central deities of Carthage, embodying fertility, protection, and cosmic authority. Baal Hammon, the chief god, was a powerful sky and fertility deity, depicted as a seated, bearded figure. Both were central to Carthaginian rituals, including offerings and, controversially, child sacrifices to secure divine favor.

Ancient Artifacts guarantees the Authenticity of items sold through a three layer system of protection: 

1. Ancient Artifacts exclusively sources artifacts from trusted and reputable antique distributors, many of whom have been selling Artifacts for decades.  
2. Next, the Artifact is inspected by an expert team member, who is professionally trained in counterfeit detection After the artifact passes inspection, the Certificate of Authenticity is signed and the Artifact is packaged. 
3. Finally, Ancient Artifacts gives an additional layer of protection by promising a full refund with no questions asked, in the extremely unlikely event that a counterfeit slips through our vetting process.

Your Carthaginian Shekel will look very similar to the ones shown in the photos. There will always be some variety, given our items are unique historical pieces. The display case included is openable so that you may easily handle and closely observe the artifact.If for whatever reason you get anything that does not fit this description you are entitled to your money back! 

Owning a Phoenician bronze shekel is possible and relatively accessible for collectors due to its historical prominence and the durability of bronze as a material. The Phoenicians, known for their maritime trade and cultural influence, minted shekels as a key currency for commerce across the Mediterranean during the first millennium BCE. These coins were used in a variety of city-states, such as Tyre and Sidon, and often bore intricate designs, including depictions of deities, ships, or symbolic animals, reflecting the Phoenician maritime culture.

Bronze shekels were often preserved due to their robust composition and the tradition of hoarding coins in ancient times. Merchants, traders, and individuals frequently buried coins for safekeeping during periods of conflict or instability. Over time, many of these hoards were rediscovered through archaeological excavations or by treasure hunters. Additionally, Phoenician coins were widely dispersed due to their role in international trade, contributing to their survival and availability.

Today, Phoenician bronze shekels can be found through specialized numismatic dealers, auctions, and collections of ancient coins.