Why do we call the hot, sultry days of summer “dog days?” Are you familiar with the Dog Star? Sirius the Dog Star was named after the ancient Egyptians' god Osirus, whose head resembled that of a dog in a pictogram.

In ancient times during the summer, Sirius rose and set with the sun. The Egyptians believed it was responsible for the summer heat by adding its heat to the heat from the sun. A reasonable guess on the Egyptians part, but as we know the heat of summer is a direct result of the earth's tilt.

Regardless, as the summer lingers on, a spell of laziness occurs for most people. Call it the doldrums, blues or dog days - the feeling is hard to explain, but it is there.

Well, the coin market certainly is not exhibiting any signs of dog days this summer. Many major coin shows are experiencing increased attendance when collectors are typically busy with other summertime activities.

Join us at the Whitman Coin & Collectibles Philadelphia Expo to be held at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, located at 1101 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107, September 30-October 3, 2010 (12pm-6pm, Thursday, 10am-6pm, Friday and Saturday).

Click here for FREE online registration to the Expo.