© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C
| Bronze | 23.6 g | - |
| 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 | 23.6 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#253528 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Priest driving two oxen right.
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: 22.2–25.09 g;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 design includes a portrait of Trajan on one side and various symbols and letters on the other, such as the letters "S P Q R" (Senatus Populusque Romanus), which stand for the Senate and People of Rome, and the phrase "OPTIMO PRINCIPI" (best leader), highlighting Trajan's reputation as a wise and effective ruler.
