This beautiful ancient coin from Athens, the most important Greek city, was minted at the beginning of the 5th century BC. This genuine silver Tetradrachm depicts the image of the goddess Athena on the obverse and the owl on the reverse.
 

Athena, also referred to as Athene, was born from Zeus and is the goddess of many things including predominately wisdom, but also courage, inspiration, civilization, law and justice, strategic warfare, mathematics, strength, strategy, the arts, crafts, and skill. She is known most specifically for her strategic skill in warfare, and has often portrayed as a companion of heroes and is the patron goddess of heroic endeavour.
 

In Greek mythology, the little owl (as shown on the reverse) also referred to as the "owl of Athena" or the "owl of Minerva", traditionally represents or accompanies Athena. This association has seen this bird be used as a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, perspicacity and erudition throughout the Western world.
 

Also on the reverse of this silver Tetradrachm coin is the inscription "ΑΘΕ" which is an abbreviation of ΑΘΗΝΑΙΩΝ, which may be translated as "of the Athenians".
 

At the time 1 Tetradrachm was equivalent to 4 Drachms. The coins of Athens were widely recognized as a method of payment across the borders of the city.

Such an ancient piece of Greek history is a must have for all collectors.