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

Denarius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI; Victory

 
Silver 3.3 g 17.5 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
3.3 g
Diameter
17.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-05
References
Numista
N#253090
Rarity index
93%

Reverse

Victory, winged, naked to waist, standing left, holding up wreath in right hand and palm 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: 2.96–3.56 g;
Diameter varies: 16.5–19 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 Victory (Victoria) on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Trajan. The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the Roman Empire's military prowess and its ability to conquer and dominate other nations. The coin's design also includes an inscription that reads "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI," which translates to "The Senate and People of Rome, to the Best Prince." This inscription highlights the coin's connection to the Roman Empire's political and social hierarchy, and serves as a testament to the power and influence of the Roman emperor.