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Athenian Owl Coin Necklace

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FMV: $6000

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The coins of ancient Athens depicting the goddess Athena, and an owl from the city's coat-of-arms, are among the world's first coinage. This silver tetradrachm (four drachms) quickly became the most important means of exchange in the Greek world. Athena, patron goddess of Athens, displays a frontal, almond-shaped eye and lips drawn back into a tight "archaic smile." On the reverse is Athena's familiar bird, inspiring the coin's popular name "owl." These owls ca. 440-404 B.C., were struck by hand and every coin is slightly different. It is not only a coin, but an example of "classical" Greek art. The coin is mounted in a 14 K. gold bezel and on a 14 K gold chain.

Donated By Jeff Garrett, Mid-American Rare Coin Galleries