© Trustees of the British Museum
© Trustees of the British Museum
Denarius - Nero PONTIF MAX TR P VIIII COS IIII P P EX S C; Virtus
| Silver | 3.4 g | - |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Nero (Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus) (54-68) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 62-63 |
| Value | 1 Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 3.4 g |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-05 |
| Numista | N#246212 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 100% |
Reverse
Virtus, helmeted, in military dress, standing left, right foot on helmet among shield, holding long spear in left hand and parazonium in his right hand and resting it on right knee
Script: Latin
Lettering: PONTIF MAX TR P VIIII COS IIII P P EX S C
Translation:
Pontifex Maximus, Tribunicia Potestas Nona, Consul Quartus, Pater Patriae, Ex Senatus Consultum
High priest, tribunician power for the ninth time, consul for the fourth time, father of the country. By decree of the senate.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
One interesting fact about this coin is that it features an image of the Roman emperor Nero, who was known for his extravagance and tyranny, yet the coin's reverse side features the image of Virtus, the goddess of virtue and moral excellence. This juxtaposition of Nero's controversial reputation with the symbolism of Virtus may suggest a subtle commentary on the emperor's character or the contrast between his public image and private behavior.
