Depicting the owl of Athena (circa 480–420 B.C.). The inscription "ΑΘΕ" is an abbreviation of ΑΘΗΝΑΙΩΝ, which may be translated as "of the Athenians". In daily use, the Athenian drachmas were called glaukes (γλαῦκες, owls). This silver coin was first issued in 479 B.C. in Athens after the Persians were defeated by the Greeks.
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.
Inspired by the Owl of Athena, famously found on a silver tetradrachm, dating back to circa 480-420 B.C., the patch details are as follows:
- 10 colours - 2 inches in diameter - Iron-on back - Heat-cut border