Nov 12, 2009
Nov 12, 2009

Tetradrachm: Head of Athena (obverse); Owl (reverse)

Tetradrachm: Head of Athena (obverse); Owl (reverse)

449–407 BC

Part of a set. See all set records

Silver

Diameter: 2.3 cm (7/8 in.)

Weight: 17.107 g (0.6 oz.)

Die axis: 3

Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.992

Location

Did you know?

The basic design of Athenian tetradrachms is now back in use, on Greek one-Euro coins.

Description

Incorporating the first three letters of the city name—ΑΘΕ—with then-iconic images of the patron goddess Athena and her owl, the Athenian tetradrachm was among the most widely traded and most recognizable coins of the ancient world. The olive leaves on Athena’s helmet and the small crescent moon behind the owl date this coin after the Persian Wars.

See also
Collection: 
GR - Greek
Department: 
Greek and Roman Art
Type of artwork: 
Coins
Medium: 
Silver
Credit line: 
Gift of J. H. Wade

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