Athens Owl Tetradrachm

5th Century BC - 1st Century BC • Ancient Athens • 4 Drachmas

About This Coin

The most iconic ancient Greek coin, featuring Athena on the obverse and her sacred owl on the reverse. These coins funded the Athenian empire and are mentioned in ancient texts. The design barely changed for 400 years.

Specifications

Composition

98% Silver

Weight

17.2 grams

Diameter

23-25 mm

Edge

Plain

Designer

Athenian state minters

Mintage

Millions over centuries

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	$200-400
Good (G)	$400-800
Fine (F)	$800-1,500
Very Fine (VF)	$1,500-3,000
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	$3,000-6,000
Uncirculated (MS)	$6,000-15,000+ (rare)

* Values are estimates based on market data and may vary significantly based on specific condition, mint mark, and market demand.

Identification Tips

Obverse shows Athena's head in profile wearing a crested helmet. Reverse features an owl (symbol of wisdom) with olive sprig and crescent moon, with "ΑΘΕ" (Athens abbreviated). Authentic coins show test cuts (ancient bankers checking silver purity). The style remained remarkably consistent across centuries.

Historical Context

Minted from the spoils of the silver mines at Laurion, these tetradrachms funded Athens' golden age - the Parthenon, the fleet that defeated Persia, and the empire. They were the "dollar" of the ancient Mediterranean, accepted everywhere. Socrates would have used these coins. The design was so trusted it remained unchanged for 400 years, unprecedented in ancient coinage.

Notable Varieties

Early 5th century (archaic style)
Classical period (480-400 BC)
Late classical (400-300 BC)
Hellenistic period (300-100 BC)
New Style (after 165 BC)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Athens Owls have test cuts?

Ancient merchants and bankers would cut or punch the coin to verify it was solid silver and not a plated fake. These "banker's marks" or test cuts actually prove authenticity - they show the coin circulated in ancient times. Coins without cuts are rarer and more expensive.

How much is an Athens Owl worth?

Genuine 5th-4th century BC owls in Fine condition typically sell for $800-2,000. Earlier archaic owls can fetch $3,000-10,000+. Later Hellenistic "New Style" owls are slightly less valuable ($500-1,500). Condition, style, and provenance all affect value significantly.