Ancients: MYSIA. Cyzicus. Ca. 550-450 BC. EL sixth-stater or hecte (10mm, 2.71 gm). NGC Choice XF 5/5 - 4/5....

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Ex Munzen und Medaillen, 1971

MYSIA. Cyzicus. Ca. 550-450 BC. EL sixth-stater or hecte (10mm, 2.71 gm). NGC Choice XF 5/5 - 4/5. Facing head of Silenus with horse ears and heavy beard; tunny fish upward to either side / Rough quadripartite mill-sail incuse square punch. Greenwell 45. BMFA 1424. Rosen 455. SNG von Aulock 7269. Von Fritze 77. SNG France 5, 208. A bold and charming portrait attractively struck and framed on a bright flan with just a hint of toning.

From the Wetmore Collection of Gold and Electrum. Ex Leu Numismatik, Auction 81 (16 May 2001), lot 244; Münzen und Medaillen, Auction 44 (15 June 1971), Lot 12.

Silenus, in Greek mythology, was the main follower and drinking companion of the wine god Dionysus. Silenus is usually portrayed as a bearded older man with the ears and tail of a horse and shown in an inebriated state, often supported by another satyr or a donkey. However, he is reputed to have had special prophetic powers when drunk. This attractive and popular type depicts Silenus in his typical smiling, happily drunken state; the unusual frontal depiction is framed by two tunny fish, the symbol of Cyzicus.

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