This coin depicts King Micipsa of Numidia on one side and a horse on the other and was made circa 148-108 B.C.E. Before the third century B.C.E., Numidia, a region in northern Africa west of Carthage, consisted of disunited, nomadic tribes. However, in the Second Punic War (218-201 B.C.E.), Masinissa united the Numidian tribes, allying with Rome against Carthage, subsequently becoming the first king of Numidia. When King Masinissa died in 148 B.C.E., his three sons inherited his kingdom; however, two of them died soon after, with the surviving son, King Micipsa, taking full reign over Numidia.

 

The face of King Micipsa on the coin represents his rule of Numidia, from approximately 148 to 108 B.C.E., the estimated time of its creation. Unlike many other ancient coins, this coin lacks inscriptions. Thus, it was designated to Micipsa based on similar art styles of coins with inscriptions bearing his name. On the opposite side, the horse represents Numidia’s famous cavalry. Furthermore, in the Second Punic War, Roman allies utilized Numidian horse riders in key battles, such as the Battle of Ilipa, the Battle of the Great Plains, and, most significantly, the Battle of Zama, in which the cavalry played a crucial role in Scipio’s complete victory over the Carthaginians. So, assisted by this Numidian aid, the Roman forces completely encircled Hannibal’s infantry, effectively bringing the Second Punic War to a close.

February 16 @ 23:05
23:05 — 00:05 (1h)

Did you like this? Share it!