Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI PAX; Pax) (112-114) front Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI PAX; Pax) (112-114) back
Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI PAX; Pax) (112-114) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Denarius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI PAX; Pax

 
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
112-114
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#253163
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Pax, draped, standing left, holding torch in right hand setting fire to a pile of arms on left and holding a cornucopiae in left.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI PAX

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

Comment

Mass varies: 2.67–3.67 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Denarius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI PAX; Pax) coin was issued during the reign of Emperor Trajan, who ruled the Roman Empire from 98 to 117 AD. The coin's obverse features the image of Trajan, while the reverse depicts the goddess Pax (Peace) standing on a rock, holding an olive branch and a scepter. The coin's design was meant to promote the idea of peace and stability during Trajan's rule, which was marked by military conquests and expansion of the Roman Empire. Despite its small size, the coin is a significant artifact of ancient Roman history and culture.