Philip I (244-249 AD) ~ BI Tetradrachm ~ NGC Very Fine

SYRIA. Antioch. Philip I (AD 244-249). BI tetradrachm (25mm, 1h). NGC VF. AD 249. AYTOK K M IOYΛI ΦIΛIΠΠOC CЄB, laureate, cuirassed bust of Philip I left, with aegis, seen from front / ΔHMAPX ЄΞOYCIAC YΠATO Δ, eagle standing right, wings spread, head right, wreath in beak, tail left; ANTIOXIA / S C below. Prieur 424.

NGC CERT #: 2117196-001

NGC DESCRIPTION: Philip I, AD 244-249, ROMAN ANTIOCH, BI Tetradrachm

NGC GRADE: Very Fine

ABOUT THE COIN:

The tetradrachm was a large silver coin that originated in Ancient Greece. It was nominally equivalent to four drachmae.  Over time the tetradrachm became effectively the standard coin of the Antiquity, spreading well beyond the borders of the Greek World.  Because of their large size, tetradrachms were often used by various states or rulers to advertise themselves or to deliver political messages.  Due to their often high artistic level tetradrachms are eagerly collected in modern times, and well-preserved or rare specimens can reach considerable prices.

Philip 1 ruled from 244-249 AD.  During his reign, the city of Rome celebrated its millennium.  Philip was betrayed and killed at the Battle of Verona but his five year reign was considered uncommonly stable in a turbulent 3rd century.

ABOUT NGC:

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