Featured Is this silver brooch older than the safety catch makes it look?

Hi everyone! This Roman(?!) style sterling brooch was in another auction lot that I won. The back looks quite old to me but it doesn't have a "C" clasp. Has the catch been replaced? What age do you think it is? Input appreciated

 

Is the catch a different colour metal or is it a trick of the light?Can you make out what it says in the centre other than Sterling?

 

The catch is a different colour, like brass almost. Unfortunately I can only make out the word "sterling" my eyes are going crossed trying to make anything else out!

 

I think it’s Athena but I don’t know the story of the dragon. We need @Bronwen

 

Should have added that it measures 1.8" across!

 

This maybe?

 

That’s undoubtedly an Unger Brothers mark.

 

Oh great, thank you! I never would have gotten that.

 

Brilliant work @anundverkaufen

 

https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/H_1978-1002-1014
brooch
Object Type
brooch
Museum number
1978,1002.1014
Description
Hollow gold brooch with a profile head of Minerva, set with three diamonds on the helmet and four diamonds set in silver as a choker around the neck. Medallist and sculptor's monograms, a warranty mark and a partly legible maker's mark.

 

Ah, not Athena then!

 

I believe Minerva was the Roman version of the Greek goddess Athena.

 

Thanks so much everyone, really appreciate the info

 

I would say that the catch was replaced. Originally it was probably a "C" catch. Having said that, my main problem is the length of the pin. Perhaps the pin was filed down to better fit the replacement catch? I vote "VICTORIAN"!

 

Agreed, the catch and pin definitely seem to have been altered!

 

Hinge is Victorian.