Epeiros, Kassope
c. 342-330/25 BCE
Æ 17.5mm, 5.30g
Head of Aphrodite r., wearing stephane.
R/ Dove flying r. within wreath.
HGC 3.1, 246

Kassope was founded in the 4th century BCE as the capital of the Kassopaeans. Today, much of its ruins remain and it’s one of the best examples of an ancient city laid out in a rectilinear street grid that was created by the architect Hippodamos.

When Kassander sent an army against Alketas II, who became king of Epeiros after Aeakides died but was known for a difficult temper, Kassope was involved in the short war. Several years later, Alketas II was murdered by his own people and Pyrrhos was placed on the throne.

This coin was minted in the 3rd century BCE, when the city was at its zenith. In 168/67 BCE it was destroyed by the Romans.

350 BCE

Kassope founded.

312 BCE

Kassander again attempts to take Dyrrhachion until the city comes under the protection of Glaukias, king of the Illyrians. Kassope is also involved.

168 BCE

The Romans under Aemilius Paulus destroy the cities of the Athamanians and Kassope.