★ Mint State ★

Attica. Athens circa 454-404 BC.
Tetradrachm AR

23 mm, 17,24 g

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 / Owl standing to right with head facing, olive sprig and crescent behind, ΑΘΕ before; all within incuse square.

Nearly Mint State

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

Ex Roma Numismatics Auction XXX, lot 103. Athena, the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom, warfare, and craftsmanship, is closely associated with the owl, a symbol that represents wisdom and watchfulness. This connection is prominently featured on the coinage of Athens, one of the most powerful city-states of ancient Greece, where Athena was revered as the city’s patron deity. The most famous depiction of Athena and the owl appears on the Athenian "owl" tetradrachms, silver coins that were widely used throughout the ancient Mediterranean world. On the obverse of these coins, Athena is typically shown wearing a helmet, symbolizing her role as a warrior goddess. Her helmet is often adorned with olive leaves, another symbol associated with her, as she was also the goddess of peace and prosperity. The reverse side of the coin features the iconic owl, often perched to the right, with an olive branch and the inscription "ΑΘΕ" (an abbreviation for "Athens" in Greek). The owl, known for its keen vision and nocturnal habits, perfectly symbolizes Athena's wisdom and her role as a protector who sees all, even in darkness. The olive branch next to the owl reinforces Athena's association with peace and prosperity, as the olive tree was sacred to her. These coins, known as "owls," were not only a key part of Athenian economy but also a symbol of the city's power, cultural influence, and the protection offered by Athena. They were so widely recognized and trusted for their consistent silver content and quality that they became a standard currency throughout much of the ancient world. The image of Athena and the owl on these coins remains one of the most enduring symbols of ancient Greece, representing the blend of wisdom, strength, and cultural achievement that characterized Athens at the height of its power.