Dupondius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) front Dupondius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) back
Dupondius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Dupondius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory

 
Bronze 13 g 27.5 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 Dupondius = ⅛ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
13 g
Diameter
27.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253487
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Victory, naked to waist, standing right, left foot on helmet, holding stylus in right hand and with left hand attaching shield inscribed VIC DAC to palm-tree.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C

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

Comment

Mass varies: 12.44–13.508 g;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Dupondius coin featuring Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) from Rome, Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) made of Bronze weighing 13 g has an interesting fact that it was used as a means of propaganda for the Roman Empire. The image of Victory on the coin was meant to symbolize the power and dominance of the Roman Empire, and the inscription "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C" translates to "The Senate and People of Rome, Optimum Principle, to the Best Emperor" which highlights the approval and support of the Roman Senate and people for Trajan's rule. This coin was circulated during Trajan's reign (103-111 AD) and it was a way for the empire to promote their leader and reinforce their authority.