Every man in it was a member of one of the upper ranks of the aristocracy; all were nearly related to members of the senate, and it was considered the highest honour that a young Carthaginian could receive to be admitted into it.
Each man wore on his wrist a gold band for each campaign which he had undertaken.

There was no attempt at uniformity as to their appointments.
Their helmets and shields were of gold or silver, surmounted with plumes or feathers, or with tufts of white horsehair.

Their breastplates were adorned with arabesques or repousse work of the highest art.

Their belts were covered with gold and studded with gems.

Their short kilted skirts were of rich Tyrian purple embroidered with gold.
The infantry were composed of men of good but less exalted families.
They wore a red tunic without a belt.