TRAJAN
AD 98-117
Orichalchum Dupondius. 10.39g, 27.5mm
MINTED: Rome mint, AD 116-117
REF: RIC II 665; Woytek 592v
OBVERSE: IMP CAES NER TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GER DAC PARTHICO P M TR P COS VI P P, radiate, draped bust right.
REVERSE: PROVIDENTIA AVGVSTI S P Q R, Providentia, draped, standing left, pointing right hand at large globe lying left, resting left elbow on column, and holding vertical sceptre in left; S - C in field.

Grade/Notes:
Fine. Bold portrait, dark orichalchum tone. Better in hand.
 
Historical Notes:
Trajan was the second of the "Five Good Emperors" who ruled the Rome during the 2nd century AD. He was an excellent military commander, expanding the frontiers of the Roman Empire to its greatest extent - annexing the Nabataean kingdom, conquering the Dacians in a great war, and finally, temporarily reducing the Parthian Empire to a client state of Rome by defeating and deposing its ruler, Osroes I. Trajan was also known for his philanthropy and social programs within the empire, and his numerous public buildings and constructions (Trajan's Forum, Trajan's Market, the Aqua Traiana). The Roman Senate declared him optimus princeps ("the best of rulers"), a title borne on many of his coins. He died after a reign of 19 years, and was deified by the Senate. Historians regard him as one of Rome's greatest rulers.