AE Semis of Trajan Decius AD 249 to 251

Obverse:- Laureate, cuirassed bust right. IMP C.M.Q.TRAIANVS.DECIVS.AVG Reverse:- Mars or Virtus standing left holding vertical spear, resting right hand on shield. S.C. either side. Mint of Rome; RIC Group II AD 249 -51. RIC Vol IV Pt 3 No 128 - also Plate 12 No 19. The restitution of the Semis to the AES coinage was part of Decius' policy of looking back to the glory days of his namesake - although the denomination was last minted by Hadrian. Bought December 2008 Brigantia at Red House York.