© Roma Numismatics Limited
© Roma Numismatics Limited
Denarius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Mars
| Silver | 3.68 g | 18 mm |
| 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 | 3.68 g |
| Diameter | 18 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#253054 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Mars, in military dress, standing right, holding spear and placing hand on shield which is held by captive.
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
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
The Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Mars) coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Trajan, who ruled the Roman Empire from 98 to 117 AD. The coin's obverse features the image of Mars, the Roman god of war, which was a common motif on Roman coins during this period. The reverse of the coin features the legend "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI," which stands for "Senatus Populusque Romanus Optimo Principi," or "The Senate and People of Rome to the Best Prince." This legend was used on many Roman coins to indicate the coin's issuance by the Roman Senate and People. The use of Mars on the coin's obverse and the legend on the reverse reflects the importance of military power and the role of the Roman Senate in the Roman Empire during Trajan's reign. Trajan was known for his military campaigns, which expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest extent, and the coin's design may have been intended to promote the idea of Roman military strength and the power of the Roman state.
