Catalog
| Issuer | Bostra (Arabia) |
|---|---|
| Year | 111 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | Tridrachm (3) |
| Currency | Drachm |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 10.74 g |
| Diameter | 23 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | Variable alignment ↺ |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | III#4051 , SNG ANS 6#1153 , BMC RE#59-61 , Metcalf#2 , Ganschow I#X12b |
| Obverse description | Laureate and draped bust right, lettering around. |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Greek |
| Obverse lettering |
AYTOKP KAIC NЄP TPAIAN CЄB ΓЄΡΜ ΔΑΚ (Translation: Emperor Caesar Nerva Trajan Augustus Germanicus Dacicus) |
| Reverse description | Arabia standing left, holding branch and bundle of cinnamon sticks, camel left at feet. |
| Reverse script | Greek |
| Reverse lettering |
ΔHMAPX ЄΞ IϚ YΠAT Ϛ (Translation: holder of the tribunitian power, consul for the fifth time) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (111) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1015743960 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This silver tridrachm, struck in Bostra in 111 CE, embodies Roman imperial presence in the newly established province of Arabia Petraea under Emperor Trajan. Annexed in 106 CE, Arabia was a vital eastern frontier. The legend, ΔHMAPX ЄΞ IϚ YΠAT Ϛ, dates its issuance to Trajan's sixteenth tribunician power and sixth consulship (111-112 CE), a period of administrative consolidation. Its substantial weight and larger denomination reflect an adaptation to local monetary traditions, integrating the region into the broader Roman economic sphere.
Artistry: The artistic execution blends official Roman imperial iconography with provincial minting characteristics. While engravers are unknown, the obverse likely features a robust, laureate portrait of Trajan, faithfully conveying his authoritative image. Such portraits projected imperial power. The reverse design, typical for Bostra, would depict a local deity like Tyche, personifying the city's prosperity, or an imperial symbol such as an eagle, underscoring Roman authority. The overall style, while provincial, is direct and impactful.
Technical/Grading: Weighing 10.74 grams and measuring 23 millimeters, this silver tridrachm is a substantial coin. For grading, key high-points on the obverse include the emperor's laureate wreath, hair, nose, and chin. On the reverse, the highest relief elements of the depicted figure or symbol are critical for assessing wear. A strong strike reveals full detail on both sides, particularly in the legends and intricate elements. Planchet quality, including roundness and freedom from flaws, also contributes to its technical merit and visual appeal.