Athena was one of the most important goddesses in Greek mythology, and Zeus’s favorite child. She was born full-grown and armored from the forehead of the god Zeus, and having to battle her way out to erupt from his brain, she takes on the attributes of wisdom and war. In addition, Athena was the goddess of the Greek cities, of industry and the arts. Athena was a patron of the agricultural arts, and as a gift to mankind, she gave the Olive Tree by striking her spear into the ground. She oversaw the skill in handy crafts of women, especially spinning and weaving. Among her gifts to man were the inventions of the plow and the flute and the arts of taming animals, building ships, and making shoes. She was often associated with birds, especially the owl. According to legend, Athena was so impressed by the great wise eyes and solemn appearance of the Owl that, having banished the mischievous crow, she honored the night bird by making it her favorite among animals. As the symbol of Athena the Owl is seen as the protector and would literally accompany Greek armies to war. If an Owl flew over Greek Soldiers before a battle, they took it as a sign of victory, granted by the grace of the great Goddess Athena, herself. The Owl was used on military banners and kept an eye on Athenian trade and commerce from the reverse side of their coins. The “AOE” is short for “Athenian” or “Of Athens”.