Sestertius of Emperor Trajan, struck at Rome 103-111

Sestertius of Emperor Trajan, struck at Rome 103-111 CE during his reign 98-117 CE; bronze; average weight about 25.67 g, diameter roughly 34 mm. Obverse legend IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P encircles laureate head right with small aegis on shoulder. Reverse legend S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI above Trajan on horseback right, thrusting spear at kneeling, bound Dacian. Blank exergue. Struck in high relief on capacious cast flans; surviving pieces generally show firm strike and olive-to-dark-brown patination. Reference: RIC II Trajan 534.