Greece 10 Lepta (Owl Type)
Country of Origin: Kingdom of Greece
Year of Issue: 1912
Denomination: 10 Lepta
Composition: Nickel (100% Nickel)
Brief Description
A small silver-colored nickel coin featuring a central hole, an owl on the obverse, and Greek text with a crown on the reverse.
Historical Significance
Issued during the reign of King George I, this coin features the owl of Athena, a classic symbol derived from ancient Athenian tetradrachms, reflecting Greece's connection to its classical past during the Balkan Wars era.
Estimated Value
$1-$5 in circulated condition, $10-$35 in Mint State (UNC)
Care Instructions
Store in a PVC-free coin flip or holder. Do not clean or polish, as this strips the original luster and significantly reduces numismatic value. Handle by the edges.
Mint Mark
None (struck at the Poissy Mint or Paris Mint, France)
Mintage & Rarity
Approx. 10,000,000; Common
Weight & Diameter
4.0g, 21.0mm
Edge
Plain
Apparent Grade
Fine to Very Fine. Shows moderate wear on the owl's feathers and the inscriptions, but all details are clearly legible.
Obverse (Front)
An Owl standing right, head facing, inspired by ancient Greek coinage. To the right is the denomination '10 ΛΕΠΤΑ' (10 Lepta). A central hole is present. Signed by engraver C. Pillet.
Reverse (Back)
The legend 'ΒΑΣΙΛΕΙΟΝ ΤΗΣ ΕΛΛΑΔΟΣ' (Kingdom of Greece) and the date '1912' above. A royal crown is located to the left of the central hole.
What Drives This Coin's Value
Condition is the primary factor. High-grade examples with original luster are much more valuable. Scratches around the central hole can decrease value.
Similar Coins
Often confused with the 5 Lepta and 20 Lepta of the same 1912 series, which have similar designs but different sizes and denominations. It also resembles the 1922 series which has slightly different typography.
Authenticity & Counterfeit Red Flags
Counterfeits of this specific date are rare due to its commonality, but check for proper weight (4g) and clear, sharp details in the owl's feathers. No seam should be visible on the edge.
Notable Varieties & Errors
No major die varieties are widely recognized for this year, though slight variations in the 'C. Pillet' signature visibility occur.
Created At: 2026-05-04T14:42:24.225508