Dekadrachm, Carthage, Goddess Tanit, c. 260 BC - National Museum of American History - DSC00261
Exhibit in the National Museum of American History, Washington, DC, USA. Photography was permitted in the museum without restriction
In 241 BC, Carthage faced a dire financial crisis after its defeat in the First Punic War. The Treaty of Lutatius imposed a crippling indemnity of 3,200 talents of silver, leaving the state economically devastated. However, within two decades, Carthage had not only met its financial obligations to Rome but also rebuilt its military strength, thanks to the silver mines of southern Iberia. The Barcid family, led by Hamilcar Barca, recognized the potential of Iberia's rich mineral resources. In 237 BC, Hamilcar crossed to Gadir, initiating a campaign to control the silver-rich regions of the Sierra Morena. This strategic move allowed Carthage to fund its recovery and military ambitions. See our article on the Silver of the Barcids: How Iberian Mines Bankrolled Carthage's Road to the Second Punic War.
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