This ancient silver tetradrachm was struck by Carthage in the late 3rd century BC, shortly after the First Punic War. The obverse features a male head in classical style, often identified with Melqart (the principal deity of Carthage) or a Hellenized portrait influenced by Greek coinage. The reverse depicts a war elephant, a powerful symbol of Carthaginian military strength and closely associated with Carthage’s armies, particularly during the era of Hannibal Barca. The elephant imagery reflects Carthage’s use of war elephants in conflicts against Rome and serves as a lasting emblem of Punic identity and power in the ancient Mediterranean world.

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