PAMPHYLIA. Side.(Circa 400-380 BC).Stater.

Obv : Athena standing left, holding owl and shield; pomegranate to left, spear to right .

Rev : Apollo, nude but for chlamys over shoulders, standing left, holding branch and bow; altar to left.

Condition : Good very fine.

Material : Silver.
Axis : 6h

Weight : 10.71 gr
Diameter : 25 mm

The depiction of Athena standing to the left, holding an owl, shield, pomegranate, and spear, is a striking iconographic motif found on certain coins minted in ancient Side, Pamphylia. This imagery combines symbols representing the city’s unique cultural identity, as well as Athena’s attributes, reflecting Side’s blend of Greek, Pamphylian, and possibly Anatolian influences.

The Owl symbolizing wisdom, the owl is a primary emblem of Athena, the goddess of wisdom, war, and strategic skill. The owl also represents watchfulness, linking it to Athena's role as a protector of cities and civilization.

The Shield Athena’s shield, often referred to as the aegis, emphasizes her role as a warrior and protector. This symbol reflects the strength and defense of Side, possibly alluding to its fortified status and strategic coastal position.

The Pomegranate a unique addition to Athena’s iconography, the pomegranate is a symbol directly linked to Side, as the city’s name means “pomegranate” in the local Anatolian language. The pomegranate in Side’s coinage represents fertility, prosperity, and the local identity, anchoring Athena’s universal imagery to Side’s distinct culture.

The Spear another attribute of Athena, the spear signifies martial prowess, reinforcing her role as a goddess of strategic warfare and Side’s historical emphasis on strength and protection, especially during times when piracy and conflict were prevalent in the region.

This coin imagery reflects the city’s identity and reverence for Athena, blending her traditional Greek attributes with local symbols. The owl and spear underscore her strength and wisdom, while the pomegranate grounds the imagery in Side’s local culture, celebrating the city’s identity and economic prosperity.

Coins featuring this Athena motif would have circulated widely, spreading Side’s symbolic identity across the region and demonstrating the city’s economic and cultural significance. The combination of Athena with a pomegranate also serves as a reminder of Side's rich history, blending Greek influence with Pamphylian heritage. These coins remain valuable artifacts for understanding Side's artistic and cultural identity within the ancient Mediterranean world.