Roman, Denarius, Trajan, 98 - 117 A.D

Roman, Denarius, Trajan, 98 - 117 A.D
RULER: Trajan
DATE: 98 - 117 A.D
DENOMINATION: Denarius
MATERIAL: Silver
SIZE & WEIGHT: 19 mm, 3,24 gr
OBVERSE: TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM TRP, laureate bust right, draped left shoulder
REVERSE: COS V PP SPQR OPTIMO PRINC, Felicitas standing left, holding caduceus and leaning on column
REFERENCES: RSC 81b, RIC 120

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Trajan was one of Rome’s greatest emperors, ruling from 98 to 117 AD. He is best known for his military conquests, particularly his successful campaigns against Dacia (modern Romania), which brought immense wealth into the empire and funded large-scale public works. His reign marked the greatest territorial expansion of Rome, stretching the empire’s borders to their furthest extent. Beyond his military achievements, Trajan was a highly capable administrator who invested in infrastructure, building roads, aqueducts, and monuments such as Trajan’s Forum and Trajan’s Column, the latter commemorating his Dacian victories. His rule is often regarded as a golden age of Rome, and he was later honored with the title Optimus Princeps ("Best Ruler").

The denarius of Trajan reflects both his military success and his commitment to civic development. These silver coins commonly depict his bust on the obverse, showcasing his strong and dignified profile, often with a laurel wreath symbolizing victory. The reverse frequently features imagery celebrating his triumphs, such as Dacian captives, the goddess Victoria (Victory), or allegorical figures representing Roman prosperity. Other denarii highlight his dedication to public welfare, depicting Aequitas (Fairness) and Abundantia (Abundance), reinforcing his image as a just and generous ruler. His coinage was widely circulated and remains a key source for understanding Roman propaganda and economic policy.

Trajan's legacy endured long after his death, influencing later emperors who sought to emulate his leadership. His policies on governance, military strategy, and public welfare set a high standard for Roman rule. Despite his ambitious expansion, the empire remained stable under his leadership, unlike the challenges faced by his successors. His reputation remained so esteemed that the Senate continued to honor future emperors by wishing them to be "more fortunate than Augustus and better than Trajan." His denarii, like his architectural achievements, serve as lasting reminders of an era of Roman strength and prosperity.