Sestertius of Trajan, 115-116 CE.

Sestertius of Trajan, 115-116 CE. Weight 26.1 g; diameter 33 mm. Obverse bears legend ‘IMP CAES NER TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS VI P P' with laureate head of Trajan facing right; finely centred strike with full beaded border. Reverse legend ‘IMPERATOR VIIII / S C' depicts Trajan seated right on a raised platform between two officers, addressing five advancing soldiers with standards; devices remain in high relief against a smooth olive-brown patina with light earthen toning. Reference: RIC II Trajan 658.

Issued during Trajan's eastern campaigns, this sestertius commemorates the acclamation of the emperor as Imperator for the ninth time following victories against Parthia and in Armenia. The military address scene promotes Trajan's role as commander rewarding loyal troops, and it circulated widely, reinforcing imperial authority in the capital and provinces.