Kassander, 305-298 BCE AE
Struck under Pleistarchos 301-298 BCE

Although the name on the coin states Kassander, this coin was minted by his brother Pleistarchos, likely when he ruled Caria. Since Pleistarchos operated under his brother’s umbrella, he of course didn’t use his own name – even though Eupolemos, another of Kassander‘s generals, did do this.

Perhaps Pleistarchos didn’t use his own name to avoid complicated holiday party conversations. After all, Kassander was equally likely to be at all family gatherings, and Pleistarchos didn’t want to always explain why the king’s name wasn’t on the king’s coins.

Regardless, this is one of my favorite bronze pieces. It’s in extremely good condition given the type, and is practically an advertisement for “Kassander – Badass.”

340 BCE

Approximate birth year of Pleistarchos to Antipater.

312 BCE

Pleistarchos serves as garrison commander in Chalkis.

304 BCE

Pleistarchos, Eupolemos and Kassander are defeated at the Diplyon Gate – the only double gate for Athens – by the Athenians while trying to re-install Demetrios of Phaleron.

303 BCE

Pleistarchos is expelled from Argos.

302 BCE

Pleistarchos sent by Kassander to join Lysimachos in the effort against Antigonos Monophthalmos.

302 BCE

Demetrios Poliorketes blockades the Hellespont, forcing Pleistarchos to turn back. Pleistarchos’ ship is destroyed in a storm on the way to Herakleia and he survives by clinging to the wreckage.

301 BCE

The Battle of Ipsos. Demetrios Poliorketes and Antigonos Monophthalmos are defeated by Seleukos I Nikator, Kassander (commanded by Pleistarchos), and Lysimachos. Antigonos is killed. Demetrios continues the Antigonid dynasty.

300 BCE

Eupolemos is believed to have served as a general under Pleistarchos in Mylasa.

300 BCE

Pleistarchos becomes a ruler in Caria.

293 BCE

Estimated death of Pleistarchos. Eupolemos succeeds him at Mylasa.