Ancient Roman Coin. Emperor Nero 54-68 AD. Victory Moving Left Bronze AS
Ancient Roman Empire: Nero (54-68 AD) Copper As
Scarce Left-Facing Portrait — Lugdunum (Lyon) Mint — Struck Circa 65-66 AD
Item Details:
-
Denomination: AE As
-
Weight: 8.73 grams
-
Diameter: 28 mm
-
Mint: Lugdunum (Modern Lyon, France)
-
Provenance: Ex-Locke & England Auctions (UK)
Design & Legends:
-
Obverse: Head of Nero facing LEFT, Small, subtle globe diagnostic mark at the tip of the neck truncation. Complete legend reads:
IMP NERO CAESAR AVG P MAX TR P P P(withIMP NERO CAESAR AVGandTRelements visible on the coin). -
Reverse: The iconic and beautifully dynamic image of Victory flying left, wings spread, holding a shield inscribed
S P Q R. Large, boldS — Csplit across the left and right fields. Legend reads:VICTORIA AVGVSTI.
Numismatic & Collector Notes:
-
Desirable Left-Facing Profile: The vast majority of Nero’s reformed copper issues feature standard right-facing portraits. Left-facing examples are notably scarcer, adding excellent eye appeal and a premium for specialized Roman portrait collectors.
-
Secure Mint Attribution: While many Nero bronzes originate from the capital, the distinct
IMPprefix starting the obverse legend securely identifies this coin as a product of the highly accomplished Lugdunum (Lyon) mint during Nero's sweeping monetary reforms of 65–66 AD. -
Excellent Fabric: Weighing a solid 8.73g on a full, generous 28mm copper flan, this specimen has a fantastic, honest feel in the hand. It is accompanied by reliable regional UK auction room provenance.