ATTICA, Athens. Circa 454-404 BC. AR Tetradrachm (23mm, 17.22 g, 5h).

Description

ATTICA, Athens. Circa 454-404 BC. AR Tetradrachm

Issuer: Athens, Attica
Date: Circa 454-404 BC
Diameter: 23 mm
Weight: 17.22 g
Die Axis: 5h
Certification: NGC AU, Strike: 5/5, Surface: 4/5
NGC Encapsulation: 6055538-009

Obverse:

• Design: Helmeted head of Athena facing right, depicted with a frontal eye, a typical feature of Athenian coinage during this period.
• Condition: Graded AU (Almost Uncirculated) by NGC, highlighting the sharpness and exceptional quality of the strike.

Reverse:

• Design: Iconic owl standing right, head facing forward, with closed tail feathers. The design includes an olive spray and crescent to the left, all within an incuse square.
• Condition: The reverse is well-preserved, with high-quality surface condition indicated by the 4/5 rating from NGC.

References:

• Kroll 8
• HGC 4, 1597

Description and Collectibility:

This AR Tetradrachm from Athens, struck between 454 and 404 BC, is a classic representation of Athenian numismatic art. The obverse features the helmeted head of Athena, the city’s patron goddess, while the reverse showcases the famous owl, a symbol of wisdom and the city itself.

Features and Highlights:

• Condition: The coin is graded AU by NGC, with a perfect strike rating of 5/5 and a surface rating of 4/5. This grading indicates minimal wear and excellent preservation of the coin’s details.
• Historical Significance: This period marks the height of Athenian power and cultural influence during the classical era. The tetradrachm was widely used in trade, reflecting Athens’ economic and political reach.

Provenance:

• Ex Heritage 232121 (26 May 2021), lot 64094, where it sold for $1560.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.