CNG 94, Lot: 347. Estimate $1000. Sold for $1820. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

ATTICA, Athens. Circa 454 BC. AR Tetradrachm (23mm, 17.14 g, 5h). Helmeted head of Athena right / Owl standing right, head facing; olive sprig and crescent behind; all within incuse square. Starr pl. XXII, 8´; Kroll 8; SNG Copenhagen 31. Good VF, light scuff on face, a couple minor marks. Fine style.

Although this piece technically belongs within the issues dated to 454-404 BC, it must be placed at the very beginning of that period. The style is close to the last transitional owls of Starr’s Group V, particularly the form of the ornament on Athena’s helmet, the feathers of the owl’s wing, and the epigraphy.