© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica
Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Roma and Victory
| Bronze | 25.03 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 | 25.03 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#253434 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Roma, helmeted, in military dress, standing left, holding Victory in extended right hand and vertical spear, reversed in left; at her feet a kneeling Dacian holding up his arms to her.
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
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features a depiction of the Roman goddess Victory (Victoria) on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Trajan (98-117 AD). The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the Roman Empire's military prowess and its ability to conquer and dominate other nations. The coin's design also includes the inscription "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C," which stands for "Senatus Populusque Romanus Optimo Principi Senatus Consulto" or "The Roman Senate and People to the Best Prince by the Decree of the Senate." This inscription highlights the coin's connection to the Roman Senate and the princeps, or emperor, and serves as a testament to the coin's authenticity and legitimacy.
