Very Rare Drachm of Heraclea, About Extremely Fine

  
Guaranteed authentic coin, carefully selected and inspected by a numismatic professional.

Obverse: Athena’s head faces slightly right, wearing a triple-crested Attic helmet adorned with Scylla. The monogram behind the helmet subtly identifies the mint, a testament to the care taken with each strike.

One can almost sense the strategic gaze of the goddess, both wise and protective.

Reverse: The owl, perched on an olive branch, surveys the world with its piercing eyes. A symbol of wisdom and vigilance, it seems to watch over the stability of the Greek cities of southern Italy. Every detail reveals the skill of Heraclea’s engravers, whose work brings art and symbolism together.

About Extremely Fine (NGC XF 4/5 - 2/5, Fine Style).

Numismatic analysis: This drachm belongs to the heavy series based on the Campanian weight standard, and each example is a miniature masterpiece. Athena’s portrait captivates with its classical refinement and almost lifelike quality, while the owl on the reverse evokes wisdom and protection. The silver’s natural patina adds a subtle lustre, making this coin as beautiful to admire as it is desirable to collect.

What makes this particular example truly exceptional, however, is the unusually clear and striking depiction of Scylla on Athena’s helmet—very few drachms show this detail with such clarity!

The details of the helmet, owl and olive branch subtly convey the history and values of a Greek city proud of its identity.