Roman Empire, Otacilia Severa, wife of Philip the Arab (244-249 AD), AR Denarius

Marcia Otacilia Severa, Empress of Rome and wife of Emperor Philip the Arab who reigned from 244 to 249 AD.

Severa and Philip have the reputation of being more sympathetic to the Christian faith and are often referred to as the first Christian Imperial couple. Various rebellions and invasions troubled Philip's reign and he resorted to debase the antoninianus. In August 249, Philip was overthrown and killed in a rebellion, led by his successor Decius. Severa received the news of his death in Rome. The Praetorian Guard murdered their son, but Severa survived and lived in relative obscurity.

The reverse of the sestertius shows Pudicitia, the personification of chaste modesty, thus being considered very suitable for an Empress.

Philip I '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.