Obverse:
Laureate head of Nero right. Text around NERO
CAESAR AVGVSTVS.
Reverse:
Salus, personifying
health, safety and general welfare, wearing
long dress seated left on throne with very
high backrest, holding patera in her outstretched
right hand. Text SALVS in exergue.
History:
This coin refers to Nero's escape from the
Pisonian conspiracy, named after a nobleman
called Piso. The would-be assassin took a
sacred dagger from the Temple of Salus, but
was betrayed, with the dagger presented as
evidence to Nero. Nero dedicated the dagger
to Jupitor in the temple of Salus and promoted
Salus on his coinage as guardian of the reign
as well as Jupiter. Dozens of Rome's elite
were accused, including Senators who were
executed, banished or committed suicide. Among
those who lost their lives were Piso and Nero’s
old friend Seneca.
Date:
Rome mint, circa 65-66AD
Diameter:
1.8cm
