2016-12-02 Fri

The latest coins issued by Spain feature designs of 6th century BC coins that have been discovered during excavations. The €100 gold coin features a Hemidracma design, minted between 3rd and 1st centuries BC by the Carthaginians. Struck mostly in Ebusus, the coin was used for commercial transactions, payment of taxes and payment for the troops. Ebusus was founded by the Phoenicians in 654 BC because it was strategically located to take control over the east-west navigational routes in those times.

The obverse depicts the ancient Egyptian deity Bes, looking forward, putting his tongue out, dressed in a skirt and a crown, carrying a club in his right hand and a snake in his left hand. The God is known as the protector of households, mothers, children, and childbirth. A lotus flower is also depicted on the coin. The plant is commonly found in the north of Africa, where Carthaginians originated. The reverse depicts a bull.

The mintage limit of the €100 .999 gold 6.75 g Proof coin is 2,500. The coins are available separately or as a three-coin set in special packaging along with a certificate of authenticity.