Reproduction Denarius of Nero - Salus

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 65-66 AD

Diameter: 1.8cm