250-251 AD. Rome mint. Obv: IMP C M Q TRAIANVS DECIVS AVG legend with radiate, draped and cuirassed bust right. Rev: GENIVS EXERCITVS ILLVRICIANI legend with Genius standing left, holding patera and cornucopia, standard at side. RIC 16c; RSC 49, 64; Sear 9374.3.92 grams. ("). Ex Swiss engineer, 1970s. Achieving military success against Gothic invaders, Decius was proclaimed emperor by his troops, although history has it that he was reluctant to accept the position. He advanced against Philip's forces in Italy in 249 AD, which he defeated, and was confirmed by the senate the following month. Through the twenty-one months of Trajan's reign he displayed great respect for Rome's imperial past and a desire to restore the old virtues which had made the empire great. Then, in a confrontation with barbarian invaders, Trajan became the first emperor in the history of Rome to fall in combat against a foreign enemy. His coinage is of considerable interest. [No Reserve]