Philip I, AR Antoninianus, Rome Mint, 244 AD – Salus

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Description

Roman Imperial, Philip I, AR Antoninianus (silver, 2.41g, 22.2mm), Rome Mint, 244 AD
Obv: IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG; radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Philip I right
Rev: SALVS AVG; Salus standing left, feeding from patera a snake rising from altar and holding rudder
Ref: RIC IV 46b; RSC 205 Rarity/Choice: Common, Good (flan slightly bent, otherwise, lovely bust)
Note: Marcus Julius Philippus, commonly known as Philip the Arab, was the Roman Emperor from AD 244 to 249. Born in the Roman province of Arabia, earned his title due to his origins. He was born in a region of the Roman Empire that is now part of modern-day Syria, specifically in the Roman province of Arabia Petraea, which covered parts of present-day Jordan, southern Syria, and northwestern Saudi Arabia. His full name was Marcus Julius Philippus. Philip’s family background was of Arab descent, which was relatively uncommon among Roman emperors at the time, leading to the moniker “the Arab.” His heritage distinguished him from other emperors and is reflected in his title.Philip rose through the ranks of the military and became emperor following the death of Gordian III. His reign is noted for its relative stability in a period often referred to as the Crisis of the Third Century, a time of military, economic, and political challenges for the Roman Empire. Philip is also traditionally associated with the celebration of Rome’s millennium in AD 248, marking 1,000 years since the founding of the city. The obverse features a radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Philip I facing right. The radiate crown signifies the coin’s denomination as an Antoninianus and symbolizes divine favor. The drapery and cuirass emphasize his role as both a statesman and a military leader, reinforcing his authority and command over the Roman Empire. The reverse shows Salus standing to the left, feeding a snake rising from an altar with a patera (a shallow dish used in religious rituals). In her other hand, she holds a rudder, symbolizing guidance and control over the fortunes of the state. The snake, often associated with healing and regeneration, reinforces the theme of health and well-being, suggesting that the emperor’s welfare was closely tied to the stability and prosperity of the Roman state.

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