1 Euro

Greece 1 Euro (Owl of Athena)

Greece (Hellenic Republic) · 2002

A bi-metallic Greek 1 Euro coin featuring a traditional owl design inspired by ancient Athenian coinage.

Country: Greece (Hellenic Republic)
Year: 2002
Denomination: 1 Euro
Metal: Bi-metallic: Copper-nickel center in Nickel-brass ring

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Identified April 18, 2026More greece (hellenic republic) coins →

Explore Greece 1 Euro (Owl of Athena) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own coins.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Overview

A bi-metallic Greek 1 Euro coin featuring a traditional owl design inspired by ancient Athenian coinage.

Historical significance

Introduced in 2002 as part of the transition from the Drachma to the Euro. The design pays homage to the ancient Athenian tetradrachm (5th century BC), which was one of the most widely used coins in the ancient world.

Obverse (front)

An owl, an olive branch, and the numeral '1' with the word 'EYPΩ' (Euro). The design is an copy of a 4-drachma coin from ancient Athens. Surrounded by 12 stars of the EU.

Reverse (back)

A map of Europe next to the denomination '1 EURO' and stylized lines connecting the 12 stars of the European flag (common Euro side design by Luc Luycx).

Estimated value

$1.08 - $1.50 (circulated), $3.00 - $6.00 (Uncirculated/BU)

What drives this coin's value

Condition/Grade is the primary factor. The 'S' mint mark variety is common and does not significantly increase value, despite many internet myths suggesting otherwise.

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine; shows significant wear on the raised surfaces of the owl and several surface scratches.

Mintage & rarity

Common; Approximately 50,000,000 minted in Finland (with 'S' mark) and 61,500,000 in Greece (no 'S' mark).

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for crisp details on the 'S' mark in the star and ensure the bi-metallic seam is tight. Weight and diameter should be exact to specifications. Magnetic properties: the center should be slightly magnetic.

Notable varieties & errors

The 'S' mint mark variety (shown here) is often mistaken by novice collectors for a 'rare error,' but it is actually a standard minting from Finland to meet initial demand in 2002.