Trajan, 98-117, Denarius

Trajan, Denarius, AR, struck during the reign of Emperor Trajan from 98-117 CE at the mint in Rome. The coin weighs 2.99 grams and has a typical diameter of approximately 18 mm.

The obverse features the laureate bust of Trajan facing right, with the inscription "IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS VI P P" encircling the design. The reverse depicts a seated figure of Roma, facing left, holding a spear and parazonium, accompanied by the legend "S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI". The strike is well-centered with considerable detail, displaying moderate wear consistent with circulation. This coin is catalogued as RIC II Trajan 276 and is valued between 40-60€. Trajan's reign was marked by military expansion and public building projects, significantly impacting the Roman Empire's prosperity. His rule is noted for the successful military campaigns that expanded the empire to its greatest territorial extent, including the conquest of Dacia, which secured vast mineral wealth, primarily gold, reinforcing Rome's economic position.