Larissa (Ancient Greece/Thessaly)
Thessaly, Larissa. Silver Stater (11.90 g), ca. 356-342 BC. Head of the nymph Larissa facing slightly left, hair bound in ampyx. Reverse: ΛAPI-Σ-AIΩN, bridled stallion trotting right. BCD Thessaly I 1159 (same dies); BCD Thessaly II 308 (same dies); Hermann grp. VII, pl. V, 1-2; SNG Copenhagen 119. Incredible quality! One of the finest examples of this remarkable coin we have seen. Perfectly struck and perfectly centered on an excellent fine silver planchet. Delicately toned with underlying luster present. Virtually as struck. Nearly Mint State. Estimated Value $10,000
A numismatist could spend years building just a collection centered solely on the coins of Larissa in Thessaly and probably never really complete it, such is the variety of the city's coinage. The facing head portraits of the nymph Larissa are some of the most beautiful in Greek coinage, showing the importance that the city attached to the artistry of its coinage. It would seem that the city even hosted a resident school of highly skilled die-engravers. This particularly fine stater is in a much better state of preservation than most found on the market, and it is also from truly handsome dies. Additionally, it is perfectly centered on both sides and struck on a nice full flan. It would certainly prove a highlight of any collection.