Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Nero

Add to album

This silver coin was minted in Rome by the emperor Nero in 60 or 61 AD. It is a type called a denarius, the most common Roman silver coin. This picture shows the reverse of the coin.

The reverse depicts Ceres, the corn goddess, veiled and draped, holding corn ears and a vertical torch. The legend 'PONTIF MAX TR P VII COS IIII P P' (bars over the VII and IIII) abbreviates some of Nero's titles and the number of years they were renewed. The legend 'EX' to the left and 'S C' to the right indicates that the Senate shared responsibility for this issue.

Rome relied on imports of corn, and any disruptions to the supply caused panic and hunger. Designs such as this one were meant to reassure people that the emperor ensured the annual supply and generously provided for his people.

Record details

To search on related items, click any underlined text below.

• Online ID: 000-180-001-638-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: Minted in 60 or 61 AD
  
• Material:
• Dimensions:
• What:
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where:
• Event:
• Description:
• References:
  • Sutherland, C.H.V. The Roman Imperial Coinage. From 31 BC to AD 69. Vol. 1, revised ed. London: Spink and Son Ltd, 1984. 
• Translations:
• Related Records: