The humble one-euro coin, often overlooked in pockets and purses, has become a hot commodity for collectors, particularly those featuring the iconic Athenian owl.
The design, a replica of the ancient silver tetradrachm, has sparked a renewed interest in numismatics, with certain mintages commanding impressive prices.
The tetradrachm, featuring the head of Athena on one side and the owl of Athens on the other, was a powerful symbol of Athenian wealth and influence in the ancient world. Its reappearance on the modern euro has resonated with collectors, bridging a gap of centuries and connecting modern currency to a rich historical legacy.
Recent reports indicate that Italian collectors are driving the demand, paying premiums for specific years. Coins minted in 2020 and 2021 are reportedly selling for around 30 euros, while those from 2013 can fetch up to 50 euros, provided they are in mint condition.
The owl’s connection to the goddess Athena and its continued status as a symbol of Athens adds to the coin’s allure. However, another detail has piqued the interest of collectors: a small “S” nestled within the stars encircling the owl. This mark represents Suomi, the Finnish name for Finland, which initially minted some of the Greek euro coins. This seemingly insignificant detail further enhances the coin’s collectability.
While most one-euro coins remain in general circulation, those with the Athenian owl and the Finnish “S” mint mark have transcended their monetary value, becoming miniature historical artifacts sought after by enthusiasts. So, next time you handle a euro coin, take a closer look – you might be holding a small piece of history worth considerably more than its face value.
