Athens, Attika, 450-400 BC, Tetradrachm

Athens, Attika, Tetradrachm, Silver, Circa 450-400 BC, Minted in Athens. Weight: 17.19g, Diameter: 25mm. The obverse features the head of Athena Parthenos, depicted facing right, helmeted, with almond-shaped eyes typical of classical Greek style. The reverse shows an owl standing right, accompanied by an olive branch and crescent, representing wisdom and victory, flanked by the Greek inscription "ΑΘΕ." The coin exemplifies a strong, deep strike with well-preserved detail, especially in the facial features of Athena and the plumage of the owl. Referenced in SNG Copenhagen 31ff, this piece captures the quintessential design of Classical Athenian numismatics. Historically, this tetradrachm was minted during a period of Athenian prosperity and expansion, part of the broader context of the Athenian Empire's hegemony across the Aegean Sea. Coins of this type were used not only in Athens but also widely circulated throughout the Mediterranean as a standard of trade. They reflect the economic dominance and cultural influence of Athens during the classical period, a time when the city became a center of art, philosophy, and democracy.