CVC & Collectables presents a classic Trajan sestertius honoring the “Optimus Princeps,” featuring an eye-catching green patina that gives this large bronze strong ancient character and display appeal.
Coin Highlights:
- Issuer: Roman Empire
- Emperor: Trajan (AD 98–117)
- Date: AD 103–111 (type date range)
- Mint: Rome
- Denomination: Æ Sestertius (1 Sestertius = ¼ Denarius)
- Metal: Bronze
- Weight: Reported range 14.04–26.73 g
- Diameter: Reported range 30.14–35 mm
- Grade: NGC Choice VF (Holder Note: flan flaws)
- Reference: RIC II 549 (sestertius) | OCRE: ric.2.tr.549_sestertius
- Obverse: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P — laureate bust of Trajan right, draped on left shoulder
- Reverse: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI S C — Trajan standing left in military dress, holding thunderbolt and spear, being crowned by Victory; Victory holds palm
- Notable Eye Appeal: Attractive green patina across the surfaces, giving this sestertius a bold, original look for the grade
Emperor History:
- Reign: AD 98–117
- Accession: Adopted by Nerva; became emperor after Nerva’s death
- Key Events: Major expansion and consolidation, including the Dacian Wars and broad imperial building programs
- Coinage & Propaganda: Titles and victory imagery broadcast Trajan’s authority and Rome’s “golden age” ideals
- Legacy: Often remembered as one of Rome’s greatest emperors and a benchmark of “good rule”
Collectibility:
Large bronzes like sestertii are prized for their size, presence, and storytelling designs. This example stands out for its pleasing green patina and strong historic type attribution (RIC 549), with the holder-noted flan characteristics typical of ancient bronze coinage. Find more alike here!
