Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 99 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | As = 1⁄16 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 10.16 g |
| Diameter | 28 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC II#407, OCRE#ric.2.tr.407 |
| Obverse description | Head of Trajan, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
IMP CAES NERVA TRAIAN AVG GERM P M TR P (Translation: Imperator Caesar Nerva Traianus Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestate. Supreme commander (Imperator), Caesar, Nerva Trajan, emperor (Augustus), conqueror of the Germans, high priest, holder of tribunician power.) |
| Reverse description | Victory, draped, advancing left, holding shield inscribed SPQR in right hand and palm in left. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
COS II DES III P P S C (Translation: Consul Secundum, Designatus Tertium, Pater Patriae, Senatus Consultum. Consul for the second time, elect for the third time, father of the nation, decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (99) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 5012928880 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This As, minted in 99 AD, marks the early reign of Emperor Trajan (Marcus Ulpius Traianus), a "Good Emperor" whose rule initiated an era of prosperity and expansion for the Roman Empire. The obverse titulature, COS II DES III P P S C, signifies his second consulship, designated for a third, his tribunician powers, and the Senate's decree for the issue. The Victory reverse projects imperial triumph and divine favor, consolidating his authority and foreshadowing his successful reign, particularly after the relatively brief rule of his predecessor, Nerva.
Artistry: While engravers remain anonymous, this As exemplifies the High Imperial Roman artistic style, blending idealized portraiture with realistic detail for clarity and impact. The obverse features a dignified, laureate portrait of Trajan, projecting imperial authority and strength. The reverse depicts Victory, a ubiquitous symbol of military success and divine approval, typically shown standing left, holding a wreath and palm. This iconography served as a potent tool of imperial propaganda, reinforcing imperial legitimacy and the empire's strength during this pivotal era.
Technical/Grading: This bronze As (approximately 28mm, 10.16g) has high-points susceptible to wear including Trajan's hair and laurel wreath on the obverse. On the reverse, Victory's head, wings, the wreath, and the palm are particularly vulnerable. Strike quality on bronze issues varies, with off-centering or minor flan imperfections being common. A well-struck specimen displays crisp details on both the imperial portrait and the Victory figure, with an even, attractive patina often enhancing its overall appeal and preservation.