© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
Aureus - Trajan P M TR P COS IIII P P; Hercules
| Gold | 7.2 g | 19 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus) (98-117) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 101-102 |
| Value | 1 Aureus = 25 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Gold |
| Weight | 7.2 g |
| Diameter | 19 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#252927 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Hercules, naked, standing front on low base, holding club downwards in right hand and lion-skin over left arm.
Script: Latin
Lettering: P M TR P COS IIII P P
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Quartum, Pater Patriae.
High priest, holder of tribunician power, consul for the fourth time, father of the nation.
Comment
Mass varies: 7.09–7.26 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Aureus - Trajan coin features an image of the Roman god Hercules on the reverse side, which is unusual for a Roman coin. Hercules was not typically depicted on Roman coins, and his appearance on this coin may indicate that Trajan was attempting to associate himself with the god's legendary strength and bravery. This coin may have been minted to commemorate Trajan's military victories, particularly his conquest of Dacia (modern-day Romania), which was seen as a great achievement and a demonstration of his military prowess.
