Catalogue
| Émetteur | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Année | 99-100 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Valeur | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Devise | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Poids | 24.24 g |
| Diamètre | |
| Épaisseur | |
| Forme | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Graveur(s) | |
| En circulation jusqu’à | |
| Référence(s) | RIC II#421, OCRE#ric.2.tr.421 |
| Description de l’avers | Head of Trajan, laureate, right. |
|---|---|
| Écriture de l’avers | Latin |
| Légende de l’avers |
IMP CAES NERVA TRAIAN AVG GERM P M (Translation: Imperator Caesar Nerva Traianus Augustus, Germanicus, Pontifex Maximus. Supreme commander (Imperator), Caesar, Nerva Trajan, emperor (Augustus), conqueror of the Germans, high priest.) |
| Description du revers | Legend within oak-wreath. |
| Écriture du revers | Latin |
| Légende du revers |
S P Q R OB CIV SER (Translation: Senatus Populusque Romanum Ob Cives Servatos. The senate and the Roman people to the saviour of the citizens.) |
| Tranche | |
| Atelier | |
| Tirage |
ND (99-100) - - |
| ID Numisquare | 8368732420 |
| Informations supplémentaires |
Historical Context: This Sestertius, minted 99-100 AD, marks the early reign of Emperor Trajan, one of the "Five Good Emperors." Succeeding Nerva, Trajan’s principate brought stability and prosperity. The reverse legend, "S P Q R OB CIV SER" (Senatus Populusque Romanus Ob Cives Servatos), signifies the Senate's grant of the civic crown. This acknowledged his benevolent rule and constitutional legitimacy, contrasting Domitian's tyranny and emphasizing his commitment to the Roman people.
Artistry: Produced at the imperial mint in Rome, this coin exemplifies high imperial Roman numismatic art. Engravers are anonymous; the style features classicizing realism, evident in Trajan’s portraiture. The obverse typically shows a laureate bust of the emperor, with strong, mature features. The reverse (RIC II#421) depicts an oak wreath (corona civica) encircling "OB CIVES SERVATOS," often surrounded by "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI." This design powerfully symbolizes the Senate’s gratitude and Trajan’s dedication.
Technical/Grading: Struck in bronze, this Sestertius weighs 24.24 grams. Key high-points include the individual leaves and acorns of the oak wreath, the clarity of the central "OB CIVES SERVATOS" inscription, and details of Trajan’s hair and laureate wreath on the obverse. Due to challenges of striking large bronze flans, full strikes are uncommon. A well-preserved example exhibits strong detail, good centering, and minimal weakness in high-relief areas, indicative of careful die preparation and strike quality.