Ancient Greece (Attica) Athens Silver Tetradrachm 454-404 BC Owl about EF

Ancient Greece (Attica) Athens Silver Tetradrachm 454-404 BC S# 2526 Owl about EF

Obverse: Helmeted head of Athena to right, wearing crested Attic helmet ornamented with three olive leaves above visor and spiral palmette on bowl, round earring with central boss, and pearl necklace

Reverse: Owl standing right, head facing; olive sprig, berry and small crescent in upper field; AOE to right; all within an incuse square. The owl's tail is a single prong.

Reference Numbers: Kroll 8; Dewing 1591-8; SNG Copenhagen 31; HGC 4, 1597.

Diameter: 24.00mm | Weight: 17.18g

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This is a bold example of one of Greece's most important trade coins.

The most famous coins from ancient Athens, and the most popular among collectors, are the silver tetradrachms featuring a helmeted Athena on the obverse, with a standing owl on the reverse, first introduced late in the sixth century.

These designs became a hallmark of the city, and with progressive stylistic variations over time, were seen on Athenian coinage for more than 400 years. Although Greek art changed dramatically over that period, this pair of designs persisted. 

The Myth and History of Ancient Athens

Athens was inhabited in prehistoric times and was a relatively defensible city due to its prominent hills. It did not become a major centre until the time of Peisistratus and his sons (560-514 BC), but soon after blossomed as a metropolis of the first rank.

According to myth, the city was given to Athena as patroness and protectress when a contest with Poseidon left her the victor. The gods decreed that the one who produced the gift most useful to man would possess the city. Poseidon struck the ground and created a well of seawater. Athena, making the olive tree spring from the ground, was awarded the prize.

Athens became the centre of classical culture as well as a great metropolis and military power. Having been burnt by the Persians during the Persian War in 480 BC, however, Athens needed rebuilding and the necessary public works fueled great prosperity. Under the leadership of Perikles splendid monuments were commissioned. The greatest of all these projects was the decoration of the Parthenon, which was placed under the supervision of Pheidias - perhaps the greatest sculptor of all time. The Athenian pottery industry was particularly successful, and Athenian-painted vases were highly valued throughout the Mediterranean. Science, philosophy and the performing arts also flourished, and many of the great literary works which we consider the "classics" were written during this period.

Within a half-century, fortunes had reversed - financial devastation followed the Peloponnesian War (431- 404 BC), and nearly ruined the city.

The period between these two wars was a golden age that few cultures have eclipsed. Despite the city's great losses, it remained important in Roman times.

Ranking Athenian Tetradrachms

Athenian tetradrachms range in collector appeal and value depending on the period they were struck in, the style of the designs on either side and the quality they remain in.

This particular "owl" has a pleasing style, has been struck fairly well-centred on both sides and remains in attractive condition.

Importantly, Athena's face is intact on the obverse, and a hint of the crest on her helmet is visible on the left-hand rim. All of the design elements on the reverse are visible.

It remains a bold example of one of Greece's most important trade coins.

 

 

SKU

213450