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

Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI

 
Bronze 21.4 g 29.5 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 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
21.4 g
Diameter
29.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253417
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

S C in oak-wreath.

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: 10.77–28.66 g;
Diameter varies: 27–32 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of Trajan, who was known for his extensive public building programs and military campaigns, including the conquest of Dacia (modern-day Romania) and the construction of the Forum Trajanum in Rome.