Ancient Rome - AD 244-249 Philip I AE Sestertius NGC Choice AU* Fine Style

Fantastic medallic sestertius struck circa CE 248, Æ 21.06 g. The obverse features IMP CAES M IVL PHILIPPVS AVG around the very well-detailed laureated head of Philip I facing right, wearing a draped and cuirassed outfit. The reverse features P M TR P V COS III P P around the Emperor seated facing left, holding a globe and a short sceptre; in exergue, we read S C. C 151. This is a fantastic portrait and obviously the work of a skilled and talented engraver. An attractive brown patina and Choice About Uncirculated with a star. Perfect strike and perfect surfaces. RIC 154a. Cf. Gnecchi I, p. 48, 2 and pl. 24, 5 and 6 (struck from the same obverse die of a silver medallion).
Ex Triton sale VIII, 2005, 1062. From the William James Conte collection.