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Obv: IMP CAES NERVAE TRAIANO AVG GER DAC PM T Bust right, draped left shoulder Struck: 112-114ad Mint: Rome Diameter: 32mm Weight: 24.7 |
Rev: FORVM TRAIAN SPQR OPTIMO PRINCIPI SC This reverse depicts the large ornate entrance to the Forum. An arch of 6 columns with a single entrance and 2 side niches with statues on each side, medallions over all: 6 horse chariot, trophys and statues on top One of the rarest of the architectural types. |
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| Attributions: Unlisted In RIC, BMCRE and Banti |
Location:
Matt Sersch Collection |
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The Forum was described by the historian Ammianus Marcellinus (A.D. 330-395) as "a gigantic complex...beggaring description and never again to be imitated by mortal men," This Coin depicts the large Archway that is the entrance to the Forum of Trajan. After passing through this arch you were in the Forum area that contained a mounted statue of Trajan. At the end of the Forum was the entrance to the Basilica Ulpia. After leaving the basilica, you are facing Trajan's column which is situated between 2 libraries and in front of an octastyle temple. All 5(Forum entrance, Equestrian statue, Basilica entrance, Column, and Temple) of these are represented on sestertii. |