Antoninian of Trajan Decius (AD 249–251), struck at the Rome mint, belongs to the issues produced during his short but intensive reign, a period in which imperial coinage played a key role in conveying stability and reinforcing imperial authority following a change of ruler.
The obverse features 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 clearly identifies the denomination as an antoninianus, which by the mid-3rd century had become the principal silver coin in circulation, despite the ongoing reduction in silver content.
The reverse depicts Uberitas standing left, holding a cornucopia and a purse, with the legend VBERITAS AVG. The personification of Uberitas represents fertility, abundance, and economic prosperity, while her attributes directly allude to wealth and financial stability. The cornucopia serves as a traditional symbol of plenty, whereas the purse refers to monetary resources and fiscal security.
Roman Imperial
Traian Decius (249-251), Antoninianus, Rome mint
Obverse: radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right
IMP C M Q TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG
Reverse: Uberitas standing left, holding purse and cornucopiae
VBERITAS AVG
Diameter 23 mm, weight 3.40 g
