Early Sestertius of Trajan (Pax)

I’m delighted with the portrait of Trajan on this Sestertius. Certainly uncommon, because from the very beginning of the reign (98-99), but if similar to the predecessor (which, as we know, often happened when, for example, the new ruler was not yet in Rome and the celator had to make stamp) only from a long neck, also characteristic of the representatives of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. In addition, the portrait style itself is, in my opinion, Eastern, „Antiochen” (although rather from later reigns, because Trajan himself had quite mild facial features on coins from this region). Of course, the condition of the reverse is a compromise, but it's a sentimental piece as it was the first Trajan Sestertius I've ever bought.

• Obverse

  • Legend: IMP CAES NERVA TRAIAN AVG GERM P M
  • Type: Head of Trajan, laureate, right

• Reverse

  • Legend: TR POT COS II S C
  • Type: Pax, draped, seated left on throne, holding branch in extended right hand and transverse sceptre in left

Referencia : MIR 27a, RIC II Trajan 390

Fuente : https://www.instagram.com/p/CrDq9AlqDU9/

Colección : Marcus Ulpius Traianus - The Optimus Princeps