In
Greek mythology, the
Golden Fleece (
chrysómallon déras) is the
fleece of the gold-hair winged
ram, which was held in
Colchis. The fleece is a symbol of authority and kingship. It figures in the tale of the hero
Jason and his band of
Argonauts, who set out on a quest for the fleece by order of King
Pelias, in order to place Jason rightfully on the throne of
Iolcus in
Thessaly. Through the help of
Medea, they acquire the Golden Fleece. The story is of great antiquity and was current in the time of
Homer (eighth century BC). It survives in various forms, among which the details vary.