TRAJAN (98-117). Denarius. Rome.

Obv: IMP TRAIANO AVG GER DAC P M TR P COS V P P.
Laureate head right.
Rev: S P Q R OPTIMO PRINCIPI.
Dacian seated right on shield in attitude of mourning; curved Dacian sword below.

Woytek 189a; RIC 219.

The falx or rhomphaia was a one- or two-handed cutting weapon adopted by the Dacians in the 4th century. This type of sword forced the Romans to partially revise their equipment, especially during Trajan's campaigns in Dacia at the beginning of the 2nd century. The soldiers adopted segmented sleeves and reinforced helmet visors to defend themselves from the cutting blows inflicted by the falx. Examples of this weapon can be seen on coins and on Trajan's Column.

Condition: Good very fine.

Weight: 3.29 g.
Diameter: 20 mm.