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 | 13.5 g |
| Diameter | |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC II#408, OCRE#ric.2.tr.408 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Trajan, laureate, right with aegis. |
|---|---|
| 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 | 6291053060 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This As, struck in 99 AD, falls early in Emperor Trajan's reign (98-117 AD), a period of consolidation following his adoption by Nerva. The titulature COS II DES III P P S C signifies his second consulship, designation for a third, and the revered title "Father of the Country," affirmed by the Senate. This issue reflects Trajan's establishment of authority and projection of imperial strength, foreshadowing his military triumphs and legacy as the "optimus princeps." The Victory reverse type symbolically underscores divine favor and martial success.
Artistry: While individual engravers are unrecorded for Roman imperial coinage, this As exemplifies the refined Trajanic style, blending classical idealism with emerging realism. The obverse likely features a robust, mature portrait of Trajan, rendered with gravitas and resolute leadership, characteristic of the mint's skilled artisans. The reverse depicts Victory, a ubiquitous allegorical figure, often shown advancing with a wreath and palm. The design effectively conveys imperial virtue and military prowess through clear, symbolic imagery, consistent with the period's artistic standards.
Technical/Grading: As a bronze As, strike quality can vary, though well-preserved examples exhibit strong details. Key high-points on the obverse portrait include the laurel wreath, ear, and highest hair strands. On the Victory reverse, the wings, head, and held attributes (wreath, palm) are typically the first areas to show wear. A superior strike would present full, sharp legends and a well-centered design on a sound flan, free from significant planchet flaws. The 13.5 gram weight is consistent with the standard for an As of this period.