Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Mars) (112-114) front Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Mars) (112-114) back
Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Mars) (112-114) photo
© Museu de Prehistòria de València

Denarius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Mars

 
Silver 3.1 g 19.5 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus) (98-117)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
112-114
Value
1 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Silver
Weight
3.1 g
Diameter
19.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#253175
Rarity index
95%

Reverse

Mars, helmeted, naked, except for cloak round waist, advancing right, holding transverse spear in right hand and trophy over left shoulder in left.

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: 2.53–3.47 g;
Diameter varies: 19–20 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a portrait of the Roman emperor Trajan, who ruled from 98 to 117 AD, on one side, and a depiction of the god Mars on the other. This coin was minted during Trajan's reign, and the image of Mars was likely included to highlight the emperor's military prowess and association with the god of war. The coin's design and symbolism reflect the cultural and religious values of the Roman Empire during this time period.