PHILISTIA (PALESTINE). Uncertain mint. Mid 5th century-333 BC. M'h (Silver, 10 mm, 0.57 g, 12 h). Laureate and bearded male head to right. Rev. A-Θ-E Owl standing facing with spread wings; to upper left, olive sprig and crescent; all within incuse square. Gitler & Tal -, cf. XIV.29Oa (position of legend and olive sprig switched). Jeselsohn 261. Extremely rare and in exceptional condition for the issue, arguably the finest known example. Boldly struck from fresh dies on excellent metal. Small test cut on the edge, otherwise, good extremely fine.


The reverse of this beautiful Philistine coin imitates the famous Athenian dekadrachm with its frontal owl, dating to the 460s BC.