Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Pax) (103-111) front Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Pax) (103-111) back
Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Pax) (103-111) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Pax

 
Silver 3.2 g 18.5 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
18.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#253086
Rarity index
91%

Reverse

Pax, draped, standing left, right foot set on Dacian (head and shoulders only showing; she holds branch in right hand and cornucopiae 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: 2.9–3.68 g;
Diameter varies: 17–20 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman goddess Pax (Irene in Greek) on the reverse, which symbolizes peace and prosperity. This is significant because Trajan's reign was marked by a period of relative peace and stability, known as the Pax Romana, which lasted for over 200 years. The coin's design serves as a representation of the Roman Empire's values and aspirations during that time.