Lot 2111

Description

Attica, Athens, (406-404 B.C.), emergency issue of silver plated tetradrachm, (14.64 grams), obv. head of Athena to right wearing ivy crested helmet, rev. owl standing to right, head facing, olive twig and crescent behind, to right AYE, all in incuse square, (S.2535, Starr Plate XXIII,12). Good very fine with gash across owl's head on the reverse.

Of historical interest as the decline of Athens' silver resources towards the end of the Peloponnesia War forced the issue of this the first emergency debased issue of coinage onto the citizens of Athens. The patriotic Aristophanes, who in the 'Frogs' laments the degeneracy of this debased coinage of Athens. The coins tend to be two to three grams lighter than the normal silver issues.