Philip, 244-249, Antoninianus

Philip I, Antoninianus, AR, reign 244–249 AD, Rome mint, 247–249 AD, 3.38 g, 22 mm. Obverse with radiate, draped and cuirassed bust of Philip I right; legend IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG. Reverse with Annona standing left, holding corn-ears and cornucopia, with modius at feet; legend ANNONA AVGG. Well-centered strike with clear legends and fully articulated principal devices. Reference: RIC IV Philip I 28c.

The ANNONA AVGG reverse type belongs to Philip I’s program emphasizing the secure provisioning of Rome and the stability of the grain supply, a central responsibility of the imperial administration. By invoking Annona and the plural AVGG, the issue presents the provisionary system as an achievement of the imperial house, aligning public welfare and the continuity of rule during a period of third-century political and military pressures.