Aureus - Trajan (COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC; Arabia) (103-111) front Aureus - Trajan (COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC; Arabia) (103-111) back
Aureus - Trajan (COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC; Arabia) (103-111) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Aureus - Trajan COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC; Arabia

 
Gold 5.1 g 20 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
1 Aureus = 25 Denarii
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Gold
Weight
5.1 g
Diameter
20 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#253034
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Arabia, draped, standing left, holding branch in right hand extended over camel walking left before her and bundle of cinnamon upright in left.

Script: Latin

Lettering: COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC

Translation:
Consul Quintum, Pater Patriae, Senatus Populusque Romanus, Optimo Principi.
Consul for the fifth time, father of the nation. The senate and the Roman people. The best of princes.

Comment

Mass varies: 3.08–7.15 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Aureus - Trajan (COS V P P S P Q R OPTIMO PRINC; Arabia) (103-111) coin is that it features a unique blend of Roman and Arabian elements. The coin's inscription includes both Latin and Greek letters, reflecting the multicultural nature of the Roman Empire at the time. Additionally, the coin's design features a portrait of Emperor Trajan wearing a laurel wreath, symbolizing his military victories and leadership. The inclusion of Arabian elements, such as the mention of "Arabia" in the inscription, highlights the empire's expansion and influence in the region. This coin serves as a fascinating example of cultural exchange and diversity in the ancient world.