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ATTICA Athens Athena Owl 440-404 BC AR (Silver) Tetradrachm NGC Ch-AU 4/5 3/5
ATTICA Athens Athena Owl 440-404 BC AR (Silver) Tetradrachm NGC Ch-AU 4/5 3/5

ATTICA Athens Athena Owl 440-404 BC AR (Silver) Tetradrachm NGC Ch-AU 4/5 3/5

$ 844.27

Availability: 100 in stock
  • Item must be returned within: 14 Days
  • All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
  • Condition: brushed
  • Restocking Fee: No
  • Certification Number: 4935016-012
  • Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
  • Refund will be given as: Money Back
  • Certification: NGC
  • Modified Item: No
  • Grade: AU 55
  • Year: 404 BC
  • Composition: Silver
  • Denomination: Tetradrachm

    Description

    Why add this Ancient Silver Tetradrachm of Athens to your collection?
    The Silver Tetradrachm from ancient Athens is one of the most influential coins in numismatic history. It is the first silver coin to be circulated internationally, as well as one of the first coins to feature detailed obverse and reverse imagery. Nicknamed the "Little Owl," merchants and traders of cities outside of Athens appreciated the Owls for their easy exchangeability, enabling the Athenian Owl Tetradrachm to become the world's first great trade currency.
    Classic imagery of the Athenian Silver Tetradrachm
    The obverse depicts the helmeted head of the goddess of wisdom, Athena, facing right. A palmette, which is an intricate floral scroll, adorns the helmet, along with three olive leaves.
    The Owl of Minerva, Athena's frequent companion, is illustrated on the reverse, standing right, head facing forward, with a tiny crescent moon and an olive spray above its wing. Inscribed "AOE," which represents "of the Athenians."