© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Pax
| Bronze | 26.2 g | 34.5 mm |
| 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 | 26.2 g |
| Diameter | 34.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#253455 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 90% |
Reverse
Pax, draped, standing left, holding branch out and downwards in right hand and cornucopiae in left; her right foot treading down Dacian whose head and shoulders only are seen.
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: 23.04–27.87 g;Diameter varies: 34–35 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The Sestertius - Trajan coin features an image of the Roman goddess Pax (Irene in Greek) on the reverse side, which is quite unique as it's not a common depiction of Pax on Roman coins. Pax is shown standing, holding an olive branch and a scepter, symbolizing peace and authority. This representation of Pax on the coin may indicate that the Roman Empire was promoting peace and tranquility during Trajan's reign (103-111 AD).
