Lotto 505 | Nero (54-68), Sestertius, Rome, AD 64; AE (g 27,53; mm 34; h 6); NERO...

Bertolami Fine Art - Riversdell Close 27, KT16 9JW Chertsey

Nero (54-68), Sestertius, Rome, AD 64; AE (g 27,53; mm 34; h 6); NERO...

Nero (54-68), Sestertius, Rome, AD 64; AE (g 27,53; mm 34; h 6); NERO CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, laureate head r., Rv. Triumphal arch decorated with friezes of battle scenes surmounted by statue of emperor in quadriga accompanied by Pax and Victory, flanked by two soldiers; inside niche of arch, a nude statue of helmeted Mars; in field, S - C. RIC 147; C 308.
A very appealing portrait struck in high relief on a full flan, and an exceptionally detailed reverse composition. Pleasant riverine patina, good extremely fine.

Citing from Numismatica Ars Classica: "Coins sometimes are the only evidence that survives to illustrate lost Roman monuments, such as the Arcus Neronis, a monument that probably did not long survive Nero’s downfall. Details of the date and the location of the arch are sketchy, but the coinage provides an excellent understanding of its form, and, with some variety, we can appreciate the relief’s decorative elements and statues that adorned it. It is generally accepted that the arch celebrates the victories of the general Corbulo over the Parthians, and that it was built on the Capitoline Hill sometime between 58 and 62. Its precise location has not been determined from ancient sources or from archaeological investigation, though proximity to the Temple of Vejovis or the Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus have both been suggested."