Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 99-100 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 24.8 g |
| Diameter | 32.5 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Coin alignment ↑↓ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC II#413, OCRE#ric.2.tr.413 |
| Obverse description | Bust of Trajan, laureate, right (sometimes with aegis). |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
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.) |
| Reverse description | Pax seated left, holding branch and sceptre. |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
TR POT COS III P P S C (Translation: Tribunicia Potestate, Consul Tertium, Pater Patriae, Senatus Consultum. Holder of tribunician power, consul for the third time, father of the nation, decree of the senate.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (99-100) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 7930710290 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Sestertius, minted 99-100 AD, dates to the early reign of Emperor Trajan (98-117 AD). Following Nerva's adoption, Trajan brought crucial stability after the turbulent Domitianic era. The inscription TR POT COS III P P S C signifies his tribunician power, third consulship, and the title Pater Patriae, all conferred by the Senate. This period marked the beginning of his extensive building programs and military campaigns, ultimately expanding the Roman Empire to its greatest territorial extent and ushering in an era of prosperity.
Artistry: While specific engravers remain anonymous, this Sestertius exemplifies the High Imperial Roman stylistic school, known for naturalistic yet idealized portraiture conveying imperial gravitas. The reverse features Pax, the goddess of peace, standing left, holding an olive branch and a cornucopia. This allegorical design emphasizes the peace and abundance Trajan aimed to project early in his rule, a common theme for new emperors. The substantial module of the Sestertius allowed for detailed and impactful iconography.
Technical/Grading: This bronze Sestertius, weighing 24.8 grams and measuring 32.5 millimeters, adheres to typical specifications. For grading, key high-points on the obverse laureate bust include the hair, ear, and laurel wreath. On the reverse Pax, attention focuses on facial features, drapery folds, and the clarity of the olive branch and cornucopia. A superior strike exhibits full, centered details on both sides, minimal flan imperfections, and an even, attractive patina, vital for bronze issues. The "S C" confirms senatorial authorization.