Emperor Trajan Copper As AD 114-117

Denomination: Copper As

Period: Roman imperial

Date: AD 114-117

Origin: Rome mint for circulation in the East

Condition: Very fine

Obverse: Draped and radiate bust, right, IMP CAES NER TRAIANO OPTIMO AVG GERM

Reverse: Large SC within oak wreath, DAC PARTHICO P M TR POT XX COS VI P P 

Size and Weight: 23mm, 7.09g

References: RIC II 647

Features and Provenance: Trajan is considered to be one of the greatest Emperors, famous for his building works. He built the first shopping mall, Trajan's Market, it was a large complex allowing merchants to sell their wares from all over the nation from its stalls, offices and forum. It survives today, although in ruins, in Rome. 

The large SC on the reverse of the coin means 'Senatus Consulto' 'by decree of the Senate'. The value of the copper was less than the value of the denomination therefore the Senate had to declare that it was supported as legal. Silver and gold coins were the actual value of their denominations.

Condition Summary. This varies with the age of coin and there are grades in between

Uncirculated (U). As struck with no traces of wear

Extremely Fine (EF). Very slight traces of wear, all parts of legend etc present, visible and clear

Very Fine (VF). Some signs of wear on the higher parts of the relief, all parts of legend etc present, but maybe worn

Fine (F). Wear on the coin and parts of legend etc may be missing or not visible