Obolos 16

CYCLADES, Anaphe. 3rd century BC. Dichalkon (Bronze, 15.5 mm, 2.14 g, 10 h). Laureate head of Apollo Aigletes to right. Rev. [Α-NA] Skyphos. HGC 6, 775. Joy 504. SNG Copenhagen (Argolis) 599. Rare. Dark red-brown patina. Small spot of corrosion on obverse, otherwise, very fine.

From the Vineyard Collection, ex Classical Numismatic Group MBS 60, 22 May 2002, 575.

On Anaphe (modern Ανάφη) Apollo was worshipped in the guise of Aiglites ('radiant' or 'shining'). This epithet derives from the god's use of his bow to shine light upon the island for the Argonauts, who had become lost during a violent storm. His temple, although in ruins, still stands on the island, contained within the walls of the monastery of Panagia Kalamiotisa. The skyphos depicted on the reverse was a traditional Greek drinking cup, usually ceramic but sometimes made of other material such as silver or even cameo glass, and usually decorated. It had a deep bowl and two handles protruding from the rim, and was used for drinking wine.