Antoninian of Trajan Decius (AD 249–251), struck at the Rome mint, belongs to issues of his reign in which particular emphasis was placed on conveying economic stability and imperial prosperity following his accession.
The obverse shows a radiate bust of the emperor facing right, with the legend IMP C M Q TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG, presenting his full titulature as imperator and augustus. The radiate crown denotes the antoninianus denomination, which at this time served as the principal silver coin in circulation, despite its reduced intrinsic silver content.
The reverse depicts Abundantia standing right, pouring out the contents of a cornucopia, with the legend ABVNDANTIA AVG. Abundantia, as the embodiment of plenty and prosperity, formed part of the standard repertory of imperial propaganda, particularly in relation to the secure provision of resources and the well-being of the state.
The overflowing cornucopia constitutes a clear visual expression of abundance and material prosperity, a message of particular ideological importance during the reign of Decius, which coincided with military and economic pressures. Issues bearing the legend ABVNDANTIA AVG are well documented within the mid-3rd century coinage and underscore the emperor’s role as guarantor of stability and supply.
Mint luster on both sides.
Roman Imperial
Traian Decius (249-251), Antoninianus, Rome mint
Obverse: radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
IMP C M Q TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG
Reverse: Abundantia standing right pouring forth the contents of a cornucopiae
ABVNDANTIA AVG
Diameter 24 mm, weight 3.93 g
