Obverse. Photo © NumisCorner.com
  • 5 Lepta 1912, KM# 62, Greece, George I
  • 5 Lepta 1912, KM# 62, Greece, George I
Description

George I (1845–1913) was King of Greece from 1863 until his death in 1913. Originally a Danish prince, George was born in Copenhagen. He was only 17 years old when he was elected king by the Greek National Assembly, which had deposed the unpopular former king Otto. He married the Russian grand duchess Olga Constantinovna of Russia, and became the first monarch of a new Greek dynasty. George's reign of almost 50 years (the longest in modern Greek history) was characterized by territorial gains. During the First Balkan War, after Greek troops had occupied much of Greek Macedonia, George was assassinated in Thessaloniki.

Engraver: Charles Pille

Obverse

Crown right of centre hole, date below. Inscription "Kingdom of Grece".

Mintmark of the Paris Mint: Cornucopia
Engraver general's privy mark: Torch (Henry Patey, 1896-1930)

ΒΑΣΙΛΕΙΟΝ
ΤΗΣ
ΕΛΛΑΔΟΣ
1912

Reverse

Owl on amphora left of centre hole. Engraver's name below.

In Greek mythology, a little owl (Athene noctua) traditionally represents or accompanies Athena, the virgin goddess of wisdom, or Minerva, her syncretic incarnation in Roman mythology. Because of such association, the bird — often referred to as the "owl of Athena" or the "owl of Minerva" — has been used as a symbol of knowledge, wisdom, perspicacity and erudition throughout the Western world.

5
ΛΕΠΤΑ
Ch. PillEt

Edge

5 Lepta

KM# 62
Characteristics
Material Nickel
Weight 3 g
Diameter 19 mm
Thickness 1.6 mm
Shape round with a center hole
Alignment Coin
Mint
Paris Mint (A)

Related coins

1st portrait

Copper, 5 g, ⌀ 25 mm

Aluminium, 0.85 g, ⌀ 20.5 mm