440-404 BC Attica, Athens Silver Owl Tetradrachm NGC Choice Very Fine 5x2

This silver tetradrachm from Attica, Athens represents the iconic coinage of the Classical Greek period, minted between 440-404 BC during the height of Athenian power and the Peloponnesian War era. The tetradrachm served as the principal trade coin of the ancient Mediterranean world, widely accepted from the Black Sea to Egypt due to its consistent weight and purity. Athens dominated maritime commerce during this period, and their distinctive owl tetradrachms became the international currency of the ancient world.

The obverse features the helmeted head of Athena facing right, adorned with a crested Attic helmet decorated with olive leaves, symbolizing wisdom and warfare. The goddess displays classical Greek artistry with well-defined facial features and flowing hair beneath the helmet. The reverse depicts Athena's sacred owl standing right with wings closed, accompanied by an olive spray and the ethnic inscription ΑΘΕ (ATHE), all within a shallow incuse square that was characteristic of early Athenian coinage.

NGC has certified this example as Choice Very Fine with a strike rating of 5/5 and surface rating of 2/5, indicating excellent die work despite some surface irregularities typical of ancient silver. The coin displays good central detail with clear definition of Athena's helmet and the owl's features, along with attractive gray-silver patina. Athenian owl tetradrachms remain among the most collected and historically significant coins from the ancient world. The coin pictured is the exact coin you will receive.