ancient-greece-athens-480-420-bc-item
DenominationTetradrachm
Country / EmpireAncient Greece (Athens)
Obverse DesignHead of Athena, facing right, wearing an Attic helmet adorned with an olive sprig and a floral scroll.
Reverse DesignOwl standing right, head facing, with an olive sprig and a crescent moon behind it. The inscription "ΑΘΕ" (ATHENA's) is to the right.
Historical Context
These coins were the primary currency of the Athenian Empire during its Golden Age, widely circulated throughout the Mediterranean and beyond. They symbolized Athenian power, wealth, and cultural influence, particularly after the discovery of the silver mines at Laurion. The owl was the sacred bird of Athena, the patron goddess of Athens.
