TRAJAN.(98-117).Rome.Denarius.

Obv : IMP CAES NER TRAIANO OPTIM AVG GER DAC PARTHICO.
Laureate and draped bust right.

Rev : P M TR P COS VI P P S P Q R.
Mars advancing right, holding spear and trophy.
RIC 340.

Condition : The coin is in good condition, with some wear visible on both sides. The patina is a light gray, with a few darker areas, indicating natural aging. There are minor surface imperfections, but the details, especially the figure on the reverse, remain clearly defined.Very fine.

Material : Silver.
Axis : 6h

Weight : 3.22 gr
Diameter : 20 mm

Trajan, born Marcus Ulpius Traianus in 53 CE, was a Roman emperor who ruled from 98 CE to 117 CE. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Roman emperors, known for his military conquests, administrative reforms, and the extensive public building projects that marked his reign. Trajan expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest territorial extent and is remembered as a model of good governance and leadership.

Trajan was born in the Roman province of Hispania, making him the first emperor of non-Italian origin. His military career was distinguished, and he gained the favor of Emperor Nerva, who adopted Trajan as his heir. Upon Nerva’s death in 98 CE, Trajan ascended to the throne and quickly established himself as a capable and just ruler.

One of Trajan's most significant achievements was his military campaigns, particularly his conquests in Dacia (modern-day Romania) and the East. His two wars against the Dacians, between 101 and 106 CE, resulted in the annexation of Dacia as a Roman province, bringing substantial wealth to Rome, including vast amounts of gold and silver. This victory was commemorated by Trajan’s Column, an iconic monument that still stands in Rome, depicting the events of the Dacian Wars in intricate detail.

In addition to his military successes, Trajan embarked on ambitious building projects that transformed Rome and other parts of the empire. His most famous architectural achievement is the construction of Trajan’s Forum, a large public space that included markets, administrative offices, and libraries. The forum was a testament to Roman engineering and architecture and symbolized the prosperity of his reign.

Trajan’s administrative policies focused on improving the lives of Roman citizens. He implemented welfare programs, such as the *alimenta*, which provided food and financial support to poor children throughout the empire. He also reformed the empire's financial system, ensuring that provincial governors were held accountable for fair governance and the protection of local populations.

Under Trajan's rule, the Roman Empire reached its greatest territorial size, including regions such as Mesopotamia and Armenia. His eastern campaign against the Parthian Empire, conducted from 113 to 117 CE, was initially successful, but these territories were difficult to maintain and were eventually abandoned after his death.

Trajan’s reputation as a wise and fair ruler was solidified by his relationship with the Senate, which he treated with respect, upholding its role in governance while maintaining ultimate control over the empire. His reign was characterized by a balance between imperial authority and senatorial cooperation, which contributed to his enduring popularity.

Trajan died in 117 CE while returning from his campaigns in the East, and he was succeeded by his adopted son Hadrian. Upon his death, the Senate declared him "Optimus Princeps" (the best ruler), a title that reflects the admiration he garnered during and after his reign. Trajan’s legacy endures as one of Rome’s most successful emperors, known for his military conquests, administrative competence, and dedication to the well-being of the empire.