TYPE Roman Empire, Philip I (244-9 AD), silver antoninianus, struck 248 AD DESCRIPTION . Obv: Radiate head of Philip to right, legend IMP PHILIPPVS AVG Rev: Antelope walking left, legend SAECVLARES AVGG, UI in ex. REFERENCE: RSC 188, RIC 22 GRADING: AEF / VF+, flan flaw, scarce ORDER INFO: R2431, $100 A popular type from the "Saeculares" series, issued in conjunction with celebrations on the occasion of Rome's millenium in 248 AD, at which time a new era (or 'seaculum', and hence our term 'secular') was proclaimed. The reverse antelope and other exotic animals from the series signify the accompanying lavish "saecular games", where they were displayed and slaughtered. Despite the pomp, Rome was well past its heyday, its hollowness illustrated by the fact it was presided over by the son of an Arab sheikh (according to some, even a crypto-Christian), who was soon to perish in yet another bloody palace coup.