Here's the coin of the month...

Above is a coin of the Roman Emperor Philip I, who reigned over the vast Roman Empire from 244 to 249. He became emperor after bringing about the murder of his young predecessor, Gordian III. His turn came only five years later when he was killed in battle against the next emperor, Trajan Decius. Natural causes were not a common factor in the deaths of third-century Roman emperors.

This is a silver antoninianus, or double denarius, a denomination introduced in 214. Over time, this denomination would become more and more debased, ending up as a mostly bronze coin with a slight silver coating or wash.

The obverse, which is especially well struck, has an inscription that reads IMP M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG . While full of titles, this is shorter than the inscription on many of his other coins. Roman emperors did not lack for ego. Note the expressive artwork, seen clearly in his brow.

While appearing more worn, the reverse is quite possibly more impressive than the obverse. The reverse of coins of these period were usually struck from very worn dies. The lettering is usually stretched and unclear. While a bit messy, perhaps, this inscription is quite easily read as ROMAE AETERNAE .

Maybe this coin was minted in celebration of the thousandth anniversary of Rome in 248. In any case, coins like this have assured that Rome is truly eternal.