Greek Royal Currency 10 Drachmae Silver Coin featuring King Paul I
Coin/Bullion · Bank of Greece / Athens Mint (Ethnikon Nomismateion)
Pattern: Greek Official Circulation Coinage of King Paul I
Type
Coin/Bullion
Maker
Bank of Greece / Athens Mint (Ethnikon Nomismateion)
Material
Silver (.835 purity, copper alloyed for durability)
Dimensions
Standard diameter approx. 20-22 mm, weight approx. 5.55 grams
Description
This circulated silver coin features the left-facing profile of King Paul I of Greece on the obverse. The crisp Greek lettering frames the portrait, embodying the mid-century monetary history of the Hellenic Kingdom during its economic reconstruction.
Key Features
Distinct left-facing portrait of King Paul I, clear 1953 date mark, and official Greek state legend
Material & Composition
Silver (.835 purity, copper alloyed for durability)
Finish & Decoration
Standard circulation strike with a reeded edge and raised profile portrait
Hallmarks & Stamps
Inscribed legend in Greek script reading 'PAULOS BASILEIS TON ELLENON' surrounding the monarch's portrait with the year 1953
Construction Details
Machine-struck coin using high-pressure hydraulic coin presses
Functional Features
Designed for general monetary exchange and cash circulation in post-war Greece
Handle & Grip Details
Reeded edge designed to prevent clipping and illegal reduction of precious metal content
Craftsmanship Details
High-precision die striking typical of national mints, offering clean lettering and a well-centered profile impression
Authentication Indicators
Correct diameter, standard reeded edge, proper weight for silver coinage of this denomination and era, and authentic mint lettering style
Origin & Manufacturing
Athens, Greece, struck by the national mint under strict government supervision
Era & Period
Post-War Europe / Cold War Era (Mid-20th Century)
Age Estimate
Dated 1953 (mid-20th century)
Cultural Significance
Represents the monarchical era of modern Greece before the abolition of the monarchy in 1973, serving as a tangible artifact of European numismatic and political history
Condition Notes
Moderate circulation wear with softening of high relief points, light surface scuffs, and natural oxidation/tarnish appropriate for a handled mid-century currency piece. Grade: Very Good (VG)
Value Estimate
Modest collector value ranging from melt value up to $15-$30 USD depending on exact numismatic grade and collector demand
Care & Maintenance
Store in a neutral environment, ideally in an inert coin holder or capsule. Avoid aggressive cleaning or chemical dips to preserve original toning and numismatic value
Similar Pieces
Other mid-20th-century Greek drachmae coins featuring George II or Constantine II, as well as contemporary European silver fractional currency
Interesting Facts
King Paul I reigned during a turbulent and transformative period in Greek history following World War II and the Greek Civil War, making his coinage highly symbolic of the nation's recovery