★ Countermark of Historical Interest ★

KINGS OF MACEDON. Philip V, 221-179 BC. (Bronze, 18 mm, 3.68 g, 10 h), Pella or Amphipolis, circa 201-186. Head of Zeus to right, wearing oak-wreath; c/m: Macedonian shield within circular incuse. Rev. B-A / Φ Athena Alkidemos standing right, preparing to cast thunderbolt held in upraised right hand, shield on left arm; to lower right, uncertain control. HGC 3, 1076. Green patina. Sharp countermark. Very fine.

After the defeat of Philip V and the annexation of the Macedonian Kingdom as a Roman Province, the Thessalians countermarked bronze coins of the former Macedonian kings to re-tariff them for continued use within their realm. This coin of Philip V is countermarked with a Macedonian shield, which suggests that it may not have only been Thessalians countermarking the coins but perhaps also the Macedonians themselves.