Please note: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Coins, symbols of power, struck in metal. From Emperors to Kings, rulers struck their image and ideals into coins, turning currency into one of history’s most enduring propaganda tools. These small objects passed daily through the hands of ordinary people, spreading messages of authority with every exchange. Coin: Sestertius Philip I the Arab, struck Rome 248 AD. Obverse: IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG, laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right. Reverse - SAECVLARES AVGG, Lion advancing right, SC in exergue. Ref: RIC 158/ Sear 9010 Diameter: ± 28,2 mm Condition: very fine condition. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format). SECULAR GAMES This coin was struck in 248 AD to honour the Secular Games (Ludi Saeculares), a major religious celebration traditionally held every 100 or 110 years to mark the beginning of a new saeculum. The Secular Games combined religious rituals dedicated to the God Jupiter with theatrical performances, athletic competitions, chariot races and processions. The lion featured on the coin refers to a dramatic component of the festivities: staged combats between specially trained gladiators known as Bestiarii and wild animals, particularly lions. These events were hosted in amphitheatres such as the Colosseum and were designed to impress and entertain the public. They were a visual expression of the Roman values of strength, courage, and dominance over nature. PHILIP THE ARAB was Roman Emperor from 244-249 AD. He was the first Emperor to come from the Roman province of Arabia. He rose through the army to become Praetorian Commander under Gordian III. During the Persian campaign his troops gave him their support against Gordian and made him emperor. In 248 AD Philip had the honour of leading the celebrations of Rome's first millennium (1000th anniversary) with spectacular games and celebrations. In 249 AD both Philip and his son were killed after their army was defeated near Verona by the forces of Trajan Decius.