Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI) (103-111) front Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI) (103-111) back
Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI) (103-111) photo
© John Conduitt (CC BY-SA)

Denarius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI

 
Silver 3.2 g 19 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 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.2 g
Diameter
19 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#253127
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Trophy of two shield, two spears, and sword set on a stump.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI

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

Comment

Mass varies: 3.18–3.28 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about the Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI) coin is that it features a portrait of Emperor Trajan on the obverse (front side), which was a common practice in Roman coinage to display the image of the ruling emperor. This coin, in particular, was minted during Trajan's reign from 103 to 111 AD, a time when the Roman Empire was at its peak, and Trajan was known for his military conquests and extensive public building programs. The coin's design, including the image of Trajan and the inscription "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI" (meaning "The Senate and People of Rome, to the Best Emperor"), reflects the propaganda efforts of the Roman government to promote the image of a strong and benevolent leader.