CVC & Collectables presents a classic late Classical–early Hellenistic Athenian silver tetradrachm, struck during the transitional period following the Peloponnesian War and into the era of Macedonian dominance. These issues represent the enduring monetary and cultural authority of Athens, even as political power shifted across the Greek world. Despite centuries of circulation and a test cut, this example retains the unmistakable iconography that made Athenian coinage the most widely accepted silver currency of the ancient Mediterranean.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: Athens, Attica
- Date: c. 353–294 BC
- Denomination: Tetradrachm
- Metal: Silver
- Weight: 16.98 g
- Diameter: ~17 mm
- Mint: Athens
- Grade: NGC VF
- Strike / Surface: 3/5 – 2/5
- Notations: Test cut
- Obverse: Head of Athena facing right, wearing crested Attic helmet
- Reverse: Owl standing right, head facing; olive spray and crescent moon present
- Style: Late Classical / Early Hellenistic
- Holder: NGC Ancients, PhotoVision Plus
History:
Although Athens was no longer an imperial power during this period, it continued to issue coinage under civic authority rather than royal rule. The imagery of Athena, patron goddess of the city, functioned as a political and religious symbol of autonomy, wisdom, and continuity. These coins were struck during a time when Athens existed under varying degrees of Macedonian influence, yet still asserted its identity through its most famous monetary type.
Collectibility:
Late Athenian tetradrachms are among the most collected ancient silver coins due to their historical importance, instantly recognizable design, and broad appeal across classical and biblical numismatics. NGC-certified examples provide assurance of authenticity, especially valuable for pieces with test cuts. This specimen offers strong eye appeal for the grade and represents a tangible link to over two millennia of monetary history. Find more alike here!
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.