Art Institute of Chicago

Denarius (Coin) Portraying Emperor Trajan

Roman, minted in RomeLinkedCulture matchlcp-e1eed953bf88

Date: October 103-October 111, probably 106-107, issued by Trajan
Medium: Silver
Culture: Roman Empire
Department: Arts of Greece, Rome, and Byzantium
Institution: Art Institute of Chicago
Object ID: 10016

From the Art Institute of Chicago record

The purpose of the first portrait coins was to identify the ruler. The front side became a mirror of the sovereign’s self-image. The back was often used to communicate the ruler’s accomplishments or intentions. The profile portrait was used because it suited the very shallow depth and limited surface of the coin. The tiny images were carved by engravers into bronze dies, one for the front and another for the back. The coins were then struck, one by one, in a process similar to how modern coins are created today. Portraits Celebrate Coins were an excellent way for leaders to advertise their victories whether in battle or at the Olympic Games. Emperor Trajan’s (r. A.D. 98–117) conquest of the kingdom of Dacia is symbolized by the defeated figure crouching before Trajan’s victory trophy.

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Provenance & credit

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Credit line: Gift of Mrs. William Nelson Pelouze
Provenance: Mrs. William Nelson (Helen T.) Pelouze (1866-1953), Chicago; given to the Art Institute of Chicago, 1923.