Nero

The last of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, Nero began his reign under the guidance of Seneca and Burrus but later became notorious for extravagance, persecution, and artistic pretensions. After the Great Fire of Rome and a series of revolts, he became the first emperor to commit suicide.

Nero's monetary reform of 64 AD established the weight standard that would endure for over a century. His death ended the Julio-Claudian dynasty and triggered the Year of the Four Emperors, demonstrating that imperial power could be seized outside Rome.

Key Events

54 AD Accession at age 16 after the death of Claudius

59 AD Ordered the murder of his mother Agrippina the Younger

64 AD Great Fire of Rome; Nero blamed Christians and began construction of the Domus Aurea

65 AD Pisonian conspiracy uncovered; Seneca forced to commit suicide

66 AD Major currency reform reducing the weight of the aureus and denarius

68 AD Revolts of Galba and Vindex; Nero committed suicide

Coinage

Neronian coinage is defined by the major reform of 64 AD, which reduced the weight and fineness of gold and silver issues. His portrait coins trace a dramatic evolution from youthful prince to mature emperor. The reformed denarii and the large bronze types of his later reign are widely collected.

Denominations

Aureus Denarius Sestertius Dupondius As Semis Quadrans

Notable Types

Port of Ostia sestertius
Macellum (market) sestertius
Temple of Janus closed sestertius
Colossus/Decursio types

Common Reverses

AVGVSTI POR OST IVPPITER CVSTOS ROMA SALVS PACE P R TERRA MARIQ PARTA DECVRSIO MAC AVG

Active Mints

Rome Lyon (Lugdunum)

Key Events

Coinage

Further Reading