Ancient Greek Silver Drachma

6th Century BC - 1st Century AD • Ancient Greece (various city-states) • 1 Drachma

About This Coin

The drachma was the fundamental currency of ancient Greece. Different city-states produced unique designs, with Athens' owl tetradrachm being the most famous and widely circulated.

Specifications

Composition

90-95% Silver

Weight

Variable (4.3g for standard drachma)

Diameter

15-25 mm depending on type

Edge

Irregular (hand-struck)

Designer

Various city-state moneyers

Mintage

Millions over centuries

Estimated Values by Condition

Condition	Estimated Value
Poor (P)	$30-75
Good (G)	$75-200
Fine (F)	$200-500
Very Fine (VF)	$500-1,500
Extremely Fine (EF/XF)	$1,500-5,000
Uncirculated (MS)	$5,000-50,000+

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

Identification Tips

Athens: Look for the owl, olive branch, and "ΑΘΕ" (Athens). Corinth: Pegasus is common. Alexander the Great issues feature Heracles in lion skin. Check for city symbols and inscriptions to identify origin. High-quality strikes with well-centered designs command premiums.

Historical Context

The drachma is one of the world's oldest currencies, used throughout ancient Greece from the 6th century BC. Each city-state minted its own designs - Athens' owls, Corinth's Pegasus, etc. After Alexander the Great's conquests, standardized types spread throughout the Hellenistic world. The name "drachma" comes from the verb "to grasp" - a handful of coins.

Notable Varieties

Athenian Owl Tetradrachm
Corinthian Staters
Alexander the Great Drachmas
Ptolemaic Tetradrachms
Seleucid Tetradrachms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Athenian Owl tetradrachm?

The most famous ancient Greek coin, featuring Athena on the obverse and her sacred owl on the reverse with an olive branch and "ΑΘΕ". These four-drachma coins were ancient Greece's most trusted currency, accepted worldwide for over 500 years.

Are ancient Greek coins affordable for new collectors?

Yes! While museum-quality examples are expensive, many authentic ancient Greek bronze coins and lower-grade silver pieces are available for $50-300. This makes ancient coin collecting accessible while still owning genuine pieces of history.