Sestertius - Trajan and Parthamaspates (REX PARTHIS DATVS S C; Parthia) (114-117) front Sestertius - Trajan and Parthamaspates (REX PARTHIS DATVS S C; Parthia) (114-117) back
Sestertius - Trajan and Parthamaspates (REX PARTHIS DATVS S C; Parthia) (114-117) photo
© Trustees of the British Museum

Sestertius - Trajan and Parthamaspates REX PARTHIS DATVS S C; Parthia

 
Bronze 21.5 g -
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus) (98-117)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
114-117
Value
1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
21.5 g
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253642
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Trajan, bare-headed, in military dress, seated left on platform on right with prefect, presenting King Parthamaspates, standing left, to Parthia, kneeling in front of him.

Script: Latin

Lettering: REX PARTHIS DATVS S C

Translation:
Rex Parthis Datus. Senatus Consultum.
A king given to the Parthians. Decree of the Senate.

Comment

Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a rare representation of a Parthian king, Parthamaspates, on a Roman coin. This is significant because it highlights the diplomatic relations between the Roman Empire and the Parthian Empire during the reign of Trajan. The inclusion of Parthamaspates on the coin suggests that he was a vassal or ally of Rome, and this coin may have been issued to commemorate a specific event or agreement between the two empires.