ATTICA. Athens. Ca. 440-404 BC. AR tetradrachm (24mm, 17.15 gm, 9h). NGC AU 4/5 – 4/5. Mid-mass coinage issue.

Description

ATTICA. Athens. Circa 440-404 BC. AR Tetradrachm

Issuer: Athens, Attica
Date: Circa 440-404 BC
Diameter: 24 mm
Weight: 17.15 g
Die Axis: 9h

Certification: NGC AU 4/5 – 4/5

Obverse:

• Design: Head of Athena facing right, wearing a single earring, a necklace, and a crested Attic helmet. The helmet is adorned with three laurel leaves and vine scrolls, symbolizing Athena’s divine status and the city’s wealth.
• Condition: Graded AU, with strong detail and excellent preservation. The coin is well-struck with minimal wear, exhibiting high-quality features.

Reverse:

• Design: AΘE (Athens) inscribed around an owl standing right, with its head facing forward. The owl is a prominent symbol of wisdom and protection associated with Athena. The reverse also features an olive sprig with two leaves and one berry, and a crescent moon behind, all within an incuse square.
• Condition: The reverse maintains clear and bold features with strong details, consistent with its AU grade.

References:

• Kroll 8
• SNG Copenhagen 31-40
• HGC 4, 1597

Description and Collectibility:

This AR tetradrachm from Athens, struck during the mid-mass coinage period between circa 440 and 404 BC, is a classic representation of Athenian coinage. The coin features Athena, the city’s patron goddess, with intricate details on the obverse and an iconic owl on the reverse.

Features and Highlights:

• Condition: NGC AU, indicating a coin with strong details and minimal wear, retaining much of its original mint luster.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The coin’s high-grade condition and well-defined imagery make it a standout example of Athenian tetradrachms from this period.

For further information, please call 212 3191077.