ATTICA Athens Athenian Owl c.540-504 BC.AR Tetradrachm

Description: ATTICA Athens Athenian Owl c.540-504 BC.AR Tetradrachm - Super Rare The Attica, Athens Athenian Owl Tetradrachm (circa 540-504 BC) is one of the most iconic and widely recognized coins from ancient Greece. Known for its simplicity and symbolic design, this coin was struck in silver (AR - argentum, meaning silver) and became a cornerstone of Athenian economy and influence during the Classical period.Obverse (Front):The obverse features the head of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, in profile facing right. Athena is depicted wearing a crested Attic helmet adorned with olive leaves and a palmette. Her image is serene yet powerful, symbolizing her role as the protector of Athens.Reverse (Back):The reverse showcases the Athenian Owl, the sacred bird of Athena, standing to the right with its head facing forward. The owl represents wisdom and knowledge, and its association with Athena made it a fitting symbol for the Athenian state.To the left of the owl is an olive sprig with leaves and a crescent moon above it, symbolizing peace, prosperity, and possibly Athens' ties to the sea.To the right of the owl, the inscription "ΑΘΕ" (short for "ΑΘΕΝΑΙΩΝ") translates to "of the Athenians", emphasizing the origin and civic pride of the coin.Historical Significance:This coin was minted during a time when Athens was emerging as a powerful city-state. The Athenian Owl Tetradrachm became the standard currency of Athens and was trusted throughout the ancient Mediterranean world for its high quality and consistent silver content.Athens was a center of trade, culture, and philosophy, and this coin played a critical role in facilitating trade and commerce across the region.The coin's symbolism reflects Athens' power, wisdom, and peace, projecting the values of the city-state to all who used it in trade.Specifications:Date: c. 540-504 BC (Archaic Period)Material: Silver (AR)Weight: Typically around 16.2 gramsDiameter: Around 25-26 mmMint: Athens, Attica (Greece)Importance:The Athenian Owl Tetradrachm became one of the most recognized ancient coins in the world and remained in circulation for centuries.It is considered one of the finest examples of ancient Greek coinage and is highly prized by collectors for its historical significance, elegant design, and the influence it exerted on coinage systems in the ancient world.This particular series from c. 540-504 BC dates back to the earlier period before the more standardized Classical owl tetradrachms that were minted after 449 BC. These early examples are rarer and more valuable due to their age and historical context.

Price: 1450 USD

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

End Time: 2024-11-06T02:07:26.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD