Roman Empire. Trajan (AD 98-117). Sestertius AD 114-117 - Fortuna

The sestertius of Emperor Trajan (AD 98–117), struck between AD 114 and 117, featuring Fortuna, the Roman goddess of luck and fortune, exemplifies the grand style of Roman bronze coinage during Trajan’s prosperous rule. The sestertius was a large bronze coin used primarily for larger transactions and was an important object of imperial propaganda. Fortuna’s depiction symbolized the emperor’s hopes or claims for continued prosperity, victory, and divine favor over the expansive Roman Empire. Trajan is often celebrated as one of Rome’s greatest emperors, known for extensive public building projects, military expansion, and administrative reforms. Coins from his reign reflect these achievements, combining artistry with political messaging. Collectors seek sestertii like this for their historical context, size, detailed reliefs, and the glimpse they provide into Roman religious and cultural values of the early 2nd century AD.