© Heritage Auctions
© Heritage Auctions
Sestertius - Trajan TR POT COS II S C; Pax
| Bronze | 25.2 g | 33.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus) (98-117) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 98-99 |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 25.2 g |
| Diameter | 33.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#253323 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Pax, draped, seated left on throne, holding branch in extended right hand and transverse sceptre in left
Script: Latin
Lettering: TR POT COS II S C
Unabridged legend: Tribunicia potestate, consul secundum, senatus consultum
Translation: Holder of tribunician power, consul for the second time, decree of the senate.
Comment
Mass varies: 22.16–27 g;Diameter varies: 33–34 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)
Interesting fact
The reverse side of the coin features the goddess Pax (Irene in Greek) standing left, holding an olive branch and a scepter. The image of Pax was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Trajan, as he was known for his military conquests and the expansion of the Roman Empire, but also for his efforts to bring peace and stability to the empire. The inclusion of Pax on the coinage was a way to promote the idea of peace and harmony, and to emphasize the idea that the Roman Empire was a force for good in the world.
