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

Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Jupiter and Victory

 
Bronze 23.9 g 33 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
23.9 g
Diameter
33 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Orientation
Coin alignment ↑↓
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253533
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Triumphal arch with bas-relief; above, Jupiter stands on tympanum; frieze inscribed IOM; arch is surmounted by six-horse chariot driven by two Victories.

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: 19.63–26.42 g;
Diameter varies: 32–34 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of Jupiter, the Roman god of thunder, on one side, and Victory on the other. This symbolism represents the power and triumph of the Roman Empire during the reign of Trajan, who was known for his military conquests and expansion of the empire.