Numidia , Micipsa

Obverse:         Bust of King left

Reverse:         Horse running left, Punic letters below

Mint :              Cirta

Date :              148-118 BC

Reference :     SNG Cop 510-13

Grade :            aVF

Weight :          12.3g

Denom :         

Metal :            Bronze

Dealer :          Ancient Imports ex (HJB)

Acquired:        24/05/04

Comments : AE 26, Masinissa grew up in Carthage as a hostage to keep his father loyal to Carthage . He fought for Carthage against the Romans in Spain from 212 to 206 and then when Hasdrubal Barca left for Italy , Masinissa took command of the Carthaginian cavalry in Spain . When the Carthaginians were forced out of Spain in 206 Africanus released Masinissa captive nephew and Masinissa defected to Rome and the rest is history.