Early Dupondius of Trajan (Abundantia)

It’s definitely not the most photogenic coin in my collection. The dark patina and slightly worse surface make it look brutal in photos, but I found it interesting enough to include in my collection. Very early issue from the very beginning of the reign, when the Emperor was not yet in Rome. I believe that as one of the first portraits of Trajan, it was exceptionally successful. In comparison with some "awkwards" from this period, the style of the portrait is outstanding. Of course, the surface of the coin is not perfect and the reverse could be a bit better, but I was looking for such a satisfying portrait on dupondius for some time. And it’s also less common variant with Gorgon head as aegis. It looks smoother in real life and the surface of the flan does not shine so much (amateur lighting). Ah, I'd forgotten. I'm also pleased with his weight. That's a decent 14.54g.

Obverse: IMP CAES NERVA TRAIAN AVG GERM P M, Head of Trajan, radiate, right, aegis on shoulder,

Reverse: TR POT COS II P P S C, Abundantia, seated left on throne, with cornucopiae as arms, holding vertical sceptre in right hand and resting left hand on fold of drapery over lap.

Riferimento : RIC 398var

Collezione : Marcus Ulpius Traianus - The Optimus Princeps