12 January 2024
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A gold aureus from the rein of Trajan (AD 98–117) was one of the highlights from the recent Savoca auction (lot 189).
The obverse featured a laureate, draped and cuirassed bust of the emperor facing right, with the inscription ‘IMP TRAIANVS AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS VI P P’. On the reverse, the coin had a view of the façade of Trajan’s Forum in Rome.
While its remains are a prominent archaeological site today, the original Forum, containing Trajan’s Column, the Basilica Ulpia, Trajan’s Library and the Markets of Trajan, was a symbol of Rome’s power and cultural achievement.
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The image on the coin clearly showed the six columns, central entrance and the two alcoves containing statues to either side of the forum.
An elaborate statue group atop the roof could also be seen, while ‘FORVM TRAIAN’ appeared in exergue.
This very fine coin sold for €7,500.
SOLD FOR £6,509
