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Ancient Egyptian

Tetradrachm (Coin) Portraying Emperor Nero

64-65
Billon

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In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

The front (obverse) of this coin portrays the head of Emperor Nero, facing right, and radiate. The back (reverse) portrays the bust of Poppaea (second wife of Nero, who was her third husband), facing right. The back includes the date of minting, " L IA", which is the eleventh year of his rule as emperor, or 64-65 CE. Nero reigned from 54-68 CE. Poppaea and Nero married in 62 CE. Coins such as this tetradrachm were struck to advertise the new imperial couple. Both portraits convey a sense of confidence and determination.

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