CVC & Collectables presents this Roman Empire AR Antoninianus of Philip II, issued as Augustus during the Saecular Games of AD 248 — Rome’s 1000th anniversary celebration. Struck at the Rome Mint by the 3rd officina, this silver coin features an elk (often misidentified as a goat) on the reverse, part of the exotic animal-themed series commemorating the grand Ludi Saeculares. Certified Extremely Fine (XF) by NGC, this is a bold and historically charged example from a truly once-in-a-millennium event.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: Roman Empire
- Emperor: Philip II (as Augustus)
- Date: AD 247–249 (Struck AD 248 for the Millennium Games)
- Mint: Rome, 3rd Officina
- Denomination: Antoninianus (AR Double Denarius)
- Composition: Silver
- Diameter: ~22–23 mm
- Edge: Plain
- Grade: NGC XF (Extremely Fine) — Sharp detail with light circulation wear
- Reference: RIC IV.III 224 (“goat” type; actually depicting a European elk/moose)
Obverse:
- Design: Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust of Philip II facing right, seen from behind
- Inscription: IMP PHILIPPVS AVG — “Imperator Philippus Augustus”
Reverse:
- Design: European elk (commonly mistaken for a goat) standing left, commemorating the Saecular Games
- Inscription: SAECVLARES AVGG — “Saecular Games of the Emperors”
- Exergue: III — indicating the third officina (workshop)
Collectibility:
Struck to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of Rome’s founding, this coin is part of the renowned Saecular Games series — a unique and limited group featuring wild animals showcased in the imperial celebrations. The elk reverse is among the scarcer types and stands out for its naturalistic rendering and symbolic link to Rome’s eternity. With a solid NGC XF grade and strong strike, this coin offers exceptional value and historical depth — a must-have for collectors of Roman Imperial issues, animal-themed coinage, or milestone commemoratives. Find more alike here!
