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

Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C AQVA TRAIANA

 
Bronze 22.3 g 32.5 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
22.3 g
Diameter
32.5 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Variable alignment ↺
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253402
Rarity index
97%

Reverse

River god reclining left on rocks under arched grotto supported by two columns; left arm resting on urn and reed in right hand.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C AQVA TRAIANA

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

Comment

Mass varies: 11.36–26.966 g;
Diameter varies: 30.5–34 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 works and military campaigns, including the construction of the Trajan's Column in Rome, which was completed in 113 AD.