© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)
Hemidrachm - Nero Victory
| Silver | 2 g | 16.5 mm |
| Issuer | Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Emperor | Nero (Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus) (54-68) |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Years | 59-60 |
| Value | Hemidrachm = ½ Drachm = ½ Denarius |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Silver |
| Weight | 2 g |
| Diameter | 16.5 mm |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Demonetized | Yes |
| Updated | 2024-10-06 |
| Numista | N#246829 |
|---|---|
| Rarity index | 97% |
Reverse
Victory, draped, seated right on globe, holding wreath with both hands.
Comment
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)Interesting fact
The Hemidrachm - Nero (Victory) coin features an image of the Roman goddess Victory (Victoria) on the reverse side, which was a common motif on Roman coins during the reign of Nero. The image of Victory was meant to symbolize the Roman Empire's military prowess and dominance. However, the coin's design also includes a peculiar feature - the Victory figure is depicted with a small shield that bears the image of a bull. This bull shield is believed to represent the astrological sign of Taurus, which was associated with Nero's birth sign. This subtle inclusion of the bull shield on the coin may have been a way for Nero to subtly promote his own personal beliefs and interests, while still maintaining the appearance of a traditional Roman coin.
