© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Sestertius - Trajan S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Salus
| Bronze | 24.6 g | 33 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 | 24.6 g |
| Diameter | 33 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#253470 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 95% |
Reverse
Salus, draped, seated left on throne, with patera in extended right hand feeding snake coiled up round lighted altar; left arm on arm of throne.
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: 18.51–28.64 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 an image of the Roman goddess Salus, who represents safety, security, and well-being. The coin was minted during the reign of Emperor Trajan, who was known for his extensive public works and military campaigns, and the image of Salus on the coin may have been intended to promote the idea of a safe and prosperous Roman Empire under his leadership.
