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

Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C

 
Bronze 24.5 g 33.5 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
24.5 g
Diameter
33.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253490
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

Trajan, bare-headed, in military dress, cloak floating behind him, riding right, thrusting spear at Dacian in front of horse.

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: 11.289–27.11 g;
Diameter varies: 33–34 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). The coin's reverse side depicts a personification of the Roman Empire, represented by a woman seated on a throne, holding a scepter and a shield. This image symbolizes the power and prosperity of the Roman Empire during Trajan's reign.