Roman Silver Antoninianus of Philip I “the Arab” (AD 244–249), NGC Choice Very Fine

Authentic ancient Roman silver antoninianus (AR Double-Denarius) of Emperor Philip I, struck during the turbulent “Age of Chaos” (Crisis of the Third Century). Graded Ch VF by NGC Ancients and encapsulated for protection (certification number 8560469-163).

Obverse features a radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Philip I facing right, with the typical imperial legend. Reverse types from this reign commonly depict mythological or military themes.

Specifications (typical for the issue):

• Diameter: approx. 21.8–23.6 mm
• Weight: approx. 2.9–4.2 g
• Metal: Silver (debased relative to earlier periods, as was common during the Crisis)
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Historical context
Philip I (Marcus Julius Philippus), known as Philip the Arab, was born in the Roman province of Arabia (modern-day Syria region). He rose to command the elite Praetorian Guard under Gordian III and succeeded him as emperor in AD 244. Early Christian writers viewed him favorably—some even speculated he may have been the first Christian emperor. His short reign ended when he was defeated and killed by his successor, Trajan Decius, in AD 249.

A well-preserved, slabbed example from one of the more historically interesting emperors of the third-century crisis period—ideal for collectors of Roman Imperial coinage.