The Greek drachma (Eλληνική δραχμή – Ellenike drakme) was the name given to the currency of Ancient Greece. It takes its name from the drachma, the ancient unit of measurement used in many Greek city-states and in many Middle Eastern kingdoms of the Hellenistic period. The inscription in Ancient Greek letters ΑΘΕ is an abbreviation of the word ΑΘΗΝΑΙΩΝ (Athenaion), which can be translated as “[the coinage] of the Athenians”. In everyday use this type of coins was called glaukes (γλαῦκες) meaning owls. This silver coin was first issued in 479 BC in Athens after the Greeks won the battle of Plataea. Scholars are still debating about the origin of the association of the owl with the goddess Athena, and therefore the city. Some say it might be because some characteristics of owls — such as their ability to see in the dark, could be interpreted as a symbol of wisdom, hence linking them to the goddess. Others say that it’s simply because the region where Athens was founded had a significant number of little owls. In any case, the city adopted the owl as proof of allegiance to its patron goddess.
Ancient Athenian Tetradrachm
£ 950.00
A fine Ancient Athenian silver tetradrachm featuring the profile of Athena on the obverse. The Greek goddess is depicted facing right and wearing a crested Attic helmet ornamented with three laurel leaves and vine scrolls, and a plume atop. Embellishments feature behind her ear and also adorn the neckpiece. Her facial features are delicately rendered, with fine detail to her eyes, lips and straight nose. The reverse features an owl standing right but faced forwards with large, round eyes and a short, pointed beak. Texture is implied through granulation across the body, and feathers through incisions to the wings. The right field bears the Greek legend ΑΘΕ (Athe) whilst an olive sprig features in the top left. A small crescent fills the field above the bird’s wings.
Ref: Dewing 1592
Condition: Very fine. Some cracks to the edges.
In stock
| Weight | 17.18 g |
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| Dimensions | L 2.3 x W 2.9 cm |
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