Trajan Gold Aureus Coin
Extremely Fine: Up to: £17,000
Coins from the reign of Trajan (AD 98–117), often called Optimus Princeps (“the best ruler”), are highly valued for their detailed architectural reverses and high gold purity. Because Trajan expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest geographical extent, his coinage frequently commemorates massive building projects like his Forum and Column, or major military triumphs in Dacia and Parthia.
Most Valuable Trajan Coins
Rarity in Trajanic coinage is primarily driven by high-grade gold issues and complex architectural designs on large bronze sestertii.
- Gold Aureus (Parthian Triumph / “Regna Ad Signata” Type): This is one of the most historically significant and valuable Roman gold coins. It commemorates the submission of the kings of Armenia, Parthia, and Mesopotamia.
- Market Value: A high-grade (NGC AU “Fine Style”) specimen is currently valued at approximately £17,000. More common “Genius” or “Fortuna” types in high grade typically range from £5,450 to £11,000.
- Mintage Information: Struck at the Rome mint (c. AD 116); while exact production numbers are lost, these specific historical types are classified as “very rare”.
- Bronze Sestertius (Triumphal Arch / Architecture Type): Large bronze coins featuring Trajan’s massive public works, such as his Triumphal Arch or his famous Column.
- Market Value: Exceptional “museum-grade” specimens can reach approximately £8,600 ($11,000+), with some records exceeding £25,000 at specialised auctions.
- Mintage Information: Struck in Rome (c. AD 103–111). These functioned as visual propaganda; the “Triumphal Arch” variety is particularly rare due to the intricate detail required in the die-cutting.
- Silver Denarius (Via Traiana / Dacia Capta): Historically significant silver units commemorating the construction of the Via Traiana road or the conquest of Dacia.
- Market Value: High-grade (Extremely Fine) specimens typically cost around £195 to £245. Scarcer varieties in “Superb EF” condition can reach £736.
- Mintage Information: Massive quantities were struck to pay the Roman legions; however, survivors in “Mint State” or with specific scarce legends (like Via Traiana) are highly sought after.