Diva Marciana, Sister of Trajan AR Denarius Roman Empire 112 AD Silver Coin Museum Reproduction CSRD0156

A public expression of his devotion to his family, Trajan’s relatives were portrayed on his coinage to an extent not seen since the Julio-Claudian emperors. Both his natural father Marcus Ulpius Traianus and adoptive father Nerva are commemorated on his coinage, and Trajan also extended the honour to his living relatives, namely his sister Marciana, his wife Plotina and his niece Matidia. Trajan and his elder sister Marciana maintained a particularly close relationship, and the deep affection that existed between them is evident in Trajan’s decision to award her the title of Augusta, the first sister of an emperor ever to receive the title. Marciana thus became part of the imperial iconography, and her statue was placed together with those of Trajan and his wife Plotina over the Arches of Trajan in Ancona.

DESIGN:
Obverse side
Draped bust right, wearing stephane
Legend:
DIVA AVGVSTA MARCIANA

Reverse side
Eagle standing to right with wings spread, head to left
Legend:
CONSECRATIO

A perfect choice for Numismatists, Historians, Military Veterans, Collectors.