Greece has circulated collectible coins to mark the 2500th Anniversary of the Battle of Thermopylae and Salamis.
The cost of this action was fully covered by the Marianna V. Vardinoyannis foundation.
“The 2,500th Anniversary of the Battle of Thermopylae and the Battle of Salamis becomes a vehicle for the promotion of the history of Greece and its fundamental role in the genesis and formation of Western Civilization. At the same time it gives everyone the opportunity to reflect on the countless symbolisms and universal values such as democracy, freedom, virtue and bravery, which result from the most glorious defeat, the one at Thermopylae, and the most critical victory, the one at Salamis, but also to the new generation to become a communicant of this great heritage and at the same time its messenger to the societies of the future,” Greek Philanthropist Marianna Vardinoyannis said.
“Here from Greece let us all send together a strong message of Virtue, Democracy and Freedom. The values that can keep us standing in such a difficult period for all humanity,” she added.
The €2 commemorative coin depicts an ancient Greek helmet on the national side. Inscribed on the coin are the words “2,500 years from the Battle of Thermopylae” and “Hellenic Republic”.
The other €10 silver commemorative coin which can be bought by collectors, features a shielded Greek hoplite (soldier) on the front with the words “Thermopylae – 480 BC,” and “Leonidas” on the arch. Flip the coin around, and on the back is a depiction of Greek warriors facing the Persians. In the middle is the coat of arms of Greece and the words “2,500 years since the Battle of Thermopylae” and “Hellenic Republic”.
