Thessaly, Greek City-State of Pelinna, Bronze Unit

These coins are from the Greek city-state of Pelinna, in the region of Thessaly. The obverse shows the veiled head of Mantho (also spelled "Manto"), the daughter of a famous Greek prophet, while the reverse shows a horseman with a spear.

Located in Northern Greece and bordering the Aegean sea, Thessaly was recognized for its vast plains and mountains, which were well watered by the River Peneus and its tributaries, which made Thessaly a fertile region known for its horses, cattle and grains.

During the 4th century BC, Thessaly experienced significant political and military transformations. Powerful aristocratic families emerged under Jason of Pherae, who unified Thessaly and consolidated its military power. Jason forged alliances with Thebes in 375 BC and sought to restore Thessaly’s influence in Greek affairs. However, Jason’s assassination in 370 sent the region into political instability as his successors were unable to maintain unity. The region fractured until ultimately falling under the control of Philip II of Macedon.

Philip II of Macedon was appointed Archon of Thessaly, bringing the region under Macedonian control during the late 4th Century.  Thessaly’s autonomy eroded as Philip II brought the region under Macedonian control. Thessaly’s renowned cavalry, the Thessalian League, was used to supplement the Macedonian armies and fight for Macedonian interests. By the end of the century, Thessaly shifted from a semi-independent federal league to a vassal territory of the Macedonian Kingdom. This arrangement continued under Alexander the Great, who also assumed the archonship despite attempted revolts from Thessaly and other semi-independent states. Alexander the Great’s success at quelling the revolt further cemented Macedonian control over Thessaly's political institutions.

Each coin comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.