THESSALY. Koinon of Thessaly. Gallienus, 253-268. Triassarion (Bronze, 19 mm, 5.50 g, 5 h). AVT K ΠΟ Λ ΓAΛΛHNOC Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Gallienus to right. Rev. ΘECCΑΛΩN ΚΟINON Nike, holding wreath in right hand and reins in left, driving galloping triga to right; below, Γ (denomination). BCD Thessaly II 992.2. Burrer, MA-G 55. Rogers 131. Brown surfaces. Porosity, otherwise, nearly very fine.
The people of ancient Thessaly probably had some difficulties distinguishing between the various bronze denominations of their local coinage during the imperial period. To help simplify matters, the mint not only clearly inscribed the denomination in a central area of the reverse - the numeral Γ (= 3 Assaria) below the horses - but the coin also depicts Nike driving a triga instead of the more common quadriga or biga, which would have helped to distinguish it from the 4- and 2-Assaria pieces that were of similar size.
Price realized | 320 CHF |
Starting price | 50 CHF |