Thessaly. Thessalian League circa 150-100 BC. Simios and Pole-, magistrates
Stater AR

22 mm, 6,01 g

Head of Zeus right, wearing laurel wreath, ΣΙΜΙΟΥ to left / ΘΕΣΣΑΛΩΝ, Athena Itonia advancing right, holding shield and preparing to hurl spear, [above, star to left and right], Π-O Λ-E across field.

Very Fine

BCD Thessaly I –; BCD Thessaly II 822; HGC 4, 208.

The Thessalian League was a powerful federated state in ancient Greece, comprising various cities in the region of Thessaly. It played a significant role in Greek politics, particularly during the Classical and Hellenistic periods. The League issued its own coinage, which is of great interest to numismatists due to its historical significance and the insight it provides into the political and cultural identity of the region. The coins of the Thessalian League are most commonly associated with the Hellenistic period, particularly after the League was reconstituted under Philip II of Macedon in the 4th century BC. These coins typically feature high-quality designs and are often struck in silver. One of the most common types of Thessalian League coins features the head of Zeus on the obverse. Zeus was a central deity in Thessaly, particularly revered at the sanctuary of Zeus at Dodona. He is usually depicted with a laurel wreath, emphasizing his status as the king of the gods. The reverse side of these coins typically features a horse, which is a symbol closely associated with Thessaly, often referred to as the "land of horses" due to its fertile plains ideal for breeding and raising horses. The horse is depicted in various poses, such as standing or in full gallop, often with a rider or alone. The inscription ΘΕΣΣΑΛΩΝ (THESSALON), meaning "of the Thessalians," usually accompanies the image, indicating the coin's origin. In some variations, the reverse side may also feature other symbols or deities connected to the region, such as Athena Itonia, another important goddess in Thessalian worship, sometimes shown holding a shield or spear. The coinage of the Thessalian League is a reflection of the region's collective identity and its prominence in the political landscape of ancient Greece. The use of Zeus and the horse as principal images underscores both the religious devotion and the equestrian culture that were central to Thessalian society. These coins were widely circulated in the region and beyond, serving not only as currency but also as symbols of the League's unity and power.