Classical Numismatic Group, LLC
Electronic Auction 524 28 Sep 2022
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CYCLADES, Keos. Keian Koinon. Late 3rd-early 2nd century BC. Æ (17mm, 5.44 g, 6h). Radiate head of Aristaeus right / Forepart of dog (Seirios) left, surrounded by rays. Papageorgiadou-Banis Series II, Issue 9; HGC 6, 596 (this coin illustrated). Mottled dark brown patina, a little smoothing. VF. Rare.
From the Dr. Stephen J. Antonello Collection. Ex Classical Numismatic Group 60 (22 May 2002), lot 594 (part of).
The Dog Star Seirios (Sirius) was associated with the heat of summer, drought, and pestilence. The heliacal rising of Seirios occurred shortly before the summer solstice, and the period that followed was termed by the ancients as the "dog days" of summer. Seirios held particular importance at Keos; a bright, clear appearance of the star portended good fortune, while a faint appearance signaled pestilence.
From the Dr. Stephen J. Antonello Collection. Ex Classical Numismatic Group 60 (22 May 2002), lot 594 (part of).
The Dog Star Seirios (Sirius) was associated with the heat of summer, drought, and pestilence. The heliacal rising of Seirios occurred shortly before the summer solstice, and the period that followed was termed by the ancients as the "dog days" of summer. Seirios held particular importance at Keos; a bright, clear appearance of the star portended good fortune, while a faint appearance signaled pestilence.