Exceptional Entella
Sicily. Entella. Punic issues. AR Tetradrachm, c. 320/315-305/300 BC. Obv. Head of Arethousa left, wearing wreath of grain ears, triple-pendant earring, and necklace; four dolphins around. Rev. Horse head left; palm tree to right; ‘MMḤNT (in Punic) below. HGC 2 284; SNG Fitzwilliam 1487 (same obv. die); SNG Lloyd 1631 (same obv. die); Jenkins, Punic, 151 (O47/R136). 16.72 g. 25.00 mm. Superb example of high engraving style. Prettily toned. EF. The location of the main Carthaginian mint in Sicily identified by Punic inscription as 'The Camp' has recently been identified as Entella, a fortress city located in central-west Sicily. Founded by the Trojans in the 500s BC, Entella was conquered by Campanian mercenaries in about 410 BC, who quickly sold their services to the Carthaginians. The city remained a Punic stronghold through most of the fourth century.