As - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) front As - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) back
As - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

As - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory

 
Bronze 9.8 g 27.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus) (98-117)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
103-111
Value
As = 1⁄16 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
9.8 g
Diameter
27.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253478
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Victory advancing left, holding wreath in right hand and palm upwards in left.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C

Translation:
Senatus Populusque Romanus Optimo Principi. Senatus Consultum.
The senate and the Roman people to the best of princes. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 8.19–11.12 g;
Diameter varies: 27–27.92 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of the Roman goddess Victory (Victoria) on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Trajan. The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the Roman Empire's military prowess and its ability to conquer and dominate other nations. The coin's design also includes the inscription "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C," which stands for "Senatus Populusque Romanus Optimo Principi Senatus Consulto" or "The Roman Senate and People to the Best Prince by the Decree of the Senate." This inscription highlights the coin's connection to the Roman Senate and the princeps, or emperor, and serves as a testament to the coin's authenticity and legitimacy.