Sestertius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) front Sestertius - Trajan (S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C; Victory) (103-111) back
no image

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

 
Bronze 26.7 g 34 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
26.7 g
Diameter
34 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#253535
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Triumphal arch with bust in pediment and two Victories reclining in tympanum.

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 an image of Victory on the reverse side, which was a common motif in Roman coinage during Trajan's reign. The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the Roman Empire's military prowess and its ability to conquer and dominate other nations. The use of Victory on coins also served as a way to promote the idea of Roman supremacy and to reinforce the idea that the Roman Empire was the greatest power in the world.