CVC & Collectables presents a scarce and historically significant Roman Imperial bronze—this Trajan Decius Double Sestertius, a bold large-module issue struck during one of Rome’s most turbulent eras. With confirmed provenance to a 1975 Schulman auction and absent from the market for over 50 years, this is a true collector opportunity that may not surface again anytime soon.
Coin Highlights:
- Ruler: Trajan Decius (AD 249–251)
- Denomination: Double Sestertius
- Date: AD 249–250
- Mint: Rome
- Metal: Bronze (Æ)
- Grade: NGC Choice Very Fine
- Diameter: Large module (approx. 30–33mm typical)
- Edge: Plain
- Obverse: IMP C M Q TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG – Radiate, draped, and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind
- Reverse: VICTORIA AVG S-C – Victory advancing left, holding wreath and palm
- Type: Early Roman double sestertius issue under Decius
Emperor History – Trajan Decius
- Reign: AD 249–251
- Accession: Proclaimed emperor by troops after defeating Philip I
- Key Events:
- Initiated empire-wide religious persecution (Decian Persecution)
- Attempted restoration of traditional Roman values and religion
- Faced Gothic invasions along the Danube frontier
- Death: Killed in battle at Abritus (AD 251), the first Roman emperor to die in combat against a foreign enemy
- Legacy: A short but impactful reign marked by reform attempts and crisis management during Rome’s decline
Provenance & Rarity Note:
- Ex. Schulman Coin & Mint Public Auction – March 3–5, 1975 (Waldorf Astoria, NY)
- Listed as “Very rare” in the original catalog with an estimate of $100–150
- Off the market for over 50 years – an increasingly important factor for advanced collectors
Coins with documented provenance to vintage sales—especially pre-1980 auctions—carry strong collector appeal and added historical depth.
Collectibility:
Double sestertii of Trajan Decius are scarce, especially in collectible grades with identifiable detail. Most survivors are heavily worn or degraded due to poor alloy and heavy circulation.
This example stands out for:
- Strong, bold portrait despite typical rough surfaces
- Clear Victory reverse with full standing figure
- Attractive natural patina with green and earthen highlights
- Desirable NGC Choice VF certification
- Documented 50+ year provenance gap
For collectors of Roman bronzes, Crisis-era coinage, or rare denominations, this is a premium opportunity—once it’s gone, it may not come back for decades.
Find more alike here!
