2026-02-17 Tue

Tanit was one of the main deities of ancient Carthage, a #city state located in North #Africa. Revered as the goddess of wisdom, #Civilization, and craftsmanship, she also served as the protector of #TOWNS and #homes where she was worshipped. Tanit is known as a virgin mother goddess and a #Symbol of fertility. Her equivalents in other cultures were Neith in Egyptian #tradition, #Ishtar in Babylonian tradition, and #Athena in Greek tradition.

In Carthaginian belief, Tanit was the consort of #Baal Hammon, the chief god of ancient Carthage, now known as present-day #Tunisia. Although Tanit's worship began in Carthage in the 5th century BCE, she quickly became a prominent figure, surpassing the older worship of Baal Hammon. As a result, she was honored as the protector goddess of Carthage, shown by her image appearing on the city's #Coins.

Her portrayal on coins began in the 4th century BCE. The #COIN depicted on this post is a #Gold Stater minted between 350 BCE and 320 BCE from Carthage. This particular coin, which is 18 mm in dia and weighs 9.41 grams, shows Tanit’s head on the obverse, facing left and wearing a #corn wreath, a necklace, and a triple-drop earring. The reverse displays a #horse standing facing right.