Athenian Owl Tetradrachm Value Guide

The Athenian Owl Tetradrachm is widely considered the most influential coin in history, serving as the world's first international trade currency. Minted from silver sourced at the Laurium mines, these coins funded the construction of the Parthenon and the legendary Athenian navy.

What affects the value of Athenian Owl Tetradrachm?

• The centering of the strike, specifically whether the full crest of Athena's helmet is visible on the planchet.
• The presence of 'test cuts' or 'banker's marks' which were historically used to verify silver purity but can lower modern market value.
• Surface preservation and the level of detail remaining on the owl's feathers and Athena's facial features.
• The overall luster and toning of the Laurium silver, with original surfaces commanding higher prices in the $550-$600 range.

How to Identify Athenian Owl Tetradrachm?

• Look for the high-relief profile of Athena wearing a crested Attic helmet decorated with three olive leaves.
• Verify the reverse side features a standing owl facing right with its head turned toward the viewer.
• Check for the presence of a small crescent moon and an olive sprig in the upper left field of the reverse.
• Confirm the Greek inscription 'ΑΘΕ' (Alpha, Theta, Epsilon) is clearly visible on the right side of the owl.

History of Athenian Owl Tetradrachm

Widely considered the most influential coin in history, the Athenian Owl was the first international trade currency. Minted from silver mined at Laurium, these coins funded the construction of the Parthenon and the Athenian navy. The owl represents Athena, the goddess of wisdom and patron of Athens.