Roman Emperor Philip I The Arab

Description

Philip I The Arab Antoninianus – “Felicitas Standing”

A remarkable silver Antoninianus of Emperor Philip I, known as Philip the Arab, struck at the prestigious Antioch mint between AD 244 and 249. This coin embodies the imperial grandeur and refined craftsmanship of the mid-3rd century Roman Empire.

The obverse features the radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Emperor Philip I facing right, surrounded by the legend IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG, a proud proclamation of imperial authority and divine sanction.

On the reverse, the goddess Felicitas, symbolizing happiness and prosperity, stands elegantly left, holding a long caduceus in her right hand and a cornucopiae in her left. The inscription P M TR P IIII COS P P honors Philip’s titles and his devotion to the welfare of Rome and its people.

Details

Emperor: Philip I (AD 244–249)

Denomination: Antoninianus

Material: Silver (AR)

Weight: 4.00 g

Diameter: 23.56 mm

Mint: Antioch

Obverse: IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG — Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right

Reverse: P M TR P IIII COS P P — Felicitas standing left with caduceus and cornucopiae

References: RIC 75a; Cohen 13

Condition: Very Fine (VF)

Significance

This coin captures a pivotal era of transition and ambition within the Roman Empire. The imagery of Felicitas reflects the emperor’s desire for peace, abundance, and divine favor—values deeply embedded in Roman ideology. Struck nearly 1,800 years ago, this Antoninianus endures as a timeless artifact of imperial resilience and prosperity.

Each coin offered by House of Emirates is authenticated, curated, and presented as a tokenized historical asset—bridging the ancient world with modern blockchain ownership.