From the Stacks Bowers’ NYINC Showcase Auction on 01/16/26, where this Owl was lot#40083 and described as: “ATTICA. Athens. AR Tetradrachm (17.17 gms), ca. 454-404 B.C. NGC Ch EF, Strike: 4/5 Surface: 4/5. Full Crest. HGC-4, 1597; Kroll-8; SNG Cop-31. Obverse: Helmeted head of Athena right; Reverse: Owl standing right, head facing; olive sprig and crescent to left; all within incuse square. Lustrous and lightly toned, this fairly well centered example of an ever-popular type presents a full crest on the head of Athena.” Athens Owls with “Full Crests” are extremely rare: I have seen estimates as low as 1% of the population to as high as 4%. This is one of those rare Full Crest examples, with not only the full crest, but also with the entire portrait including nose and chin squarely on the planchet. NGC certification# 8230271-020.
The "Athens Owl" Tet is perhaps the most iconic and well-known ancient coin of all. Always in demand, instantly recognizable, and one of the longest continuously struck coin types in world history. As in 400+ years! These circulated all over the Mediterranean, and hoards continue to be found in that part of the world. There is a good supply of available coins these days, BUT not all of these are considered equal! To me, there are certain characteristics that are clearly desired for a premium example. Aside from the highest grade you can find with original surfaces and color, here are some of the other key requirements. First and foremost, the FULL CREST designation is the most desirable feature. According to NGC Ancients, approximately 2-3% of the coins that they have graded will qualify for that designation. In a nutshell, this designation means that the entire obverse design is ON the planchet, especially the full details top to bottom in the crest of the Attic helmet, with NO other details being pushed off the planchet. For example, an example struck off-center might show the entire helmet crest, but then the forehead, chin, lips, or neck might be off-flan. Remember, these coins were struck by hand over 2500 years ago, so they were not worried about perfection! Second, the reverse needs to show a full OWL, AOE ethnic, and olive sprig. Ideally, these would be "picture-framed" within a perfectly square incuse section, with every part of every feature inside that frame. And if you get that picture frame in a perfect medal or coin alignment to the obverse, that is even better! Third, you want a planchet that is as "regular" as possible, meaning nearly round, no rough edges, no cracks, flaws, or splits. Fourth, you do NOT want any test cuts or banker's marks. I know that these were contemporary marks when the coins circulated, but even so, most collectors consider that as manmade damage that draws the eye and detracts from the design. And fifth and finally, if you can find an example with "Fine Style," that is the icing on the cake! Now that you know what to look for - GOOD LUCK! That coin is probably 1 in 10,000, but after all, the thrill is in the chase! Happy Owl Hunting!
