3 Euros (Owl)

The 3-euro coin series was introduced by the Austrian Mint in 2016 as a specialized numismatic program, specifically targeting collectors with its unconventional denomination. The 2018 issue featuring the owl is part of the 'Colourful Creatures' series, which highlights the biodiversity of the Alpine region. These coins are designed to be both educational and visually striking, utilizing a distinctive circular shape with a jagged, twelve-sided edge that distinguishes them from standard circulating currency.

The design of the 2018 owl coin reflects the high production standards of the Austrian Mint, emphasizing detailed relief work and the use of glow-in-the-dark technology on the reverse side to depict the creature's nocturnal nature. Created by the Mint's internal design team, the aesthetic aims to blend modern artistic sensibilities with naturalistic depictions. The series has been well-received by the collecting community for its whimsical approach to currency, serving primarily as a collectible commemorative piece rather than a coin intended for daily commercial circulation.