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Orbis Collectibles

RIC I (second edition) Nero 233

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · research required

Issuing entity

Roman Empire

RIC I (second edition) Nero 233. Denomination: Semis. Authority: Nero. Mint: Rome. The obverse shows head of Nero, laureate, right, with the legend NERO CAES AVG IMP.

The reverse shows table decorated with two sphinxes or gryphons confronting; on top, urn and wreath; round shield resting on leg, with the legend CER QVINQ ROM CO S S C.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
2
Photograph views
7
Catalogue references
1

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Historical context

Nero was Roman emperor from AD 54 until his suicide on 9 June AD 68, ruling as the final emperor of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. His governance focused substantially on diplomacy, trade, and culture, and he actively promoted athletic games and contests while ordering the construction of amphitheaters. His provision of public entertainments proved popular among lower-class citizens, although it scandalised and was resented by the Roman aristocracy.

Struck at the Rome mint, this bronze semis represented a small denomination valued at half an as, which in the early Imperial period could purchase a wax writing tablet. The obverse bears the emperor's portrait and the legend "NERO CAES AVG IMP". The reverse depicts a table with two confronting sphinxes or gryphons, an urn, a wreath, and a round shield resting against a leg, accompanied by the inscription "CER QVINQ ROM CO S S C".

Physical characteristics

Material
Bronze
Denomination
Semis

Technical characteristics

Mint
Rome
Authority
Nero

Design

Obverse
Head of Nero, laureate, right
Reverse
Table decorated with two sphinxes or gryphons confronting; on top, urn and wreath; round shield resting on leg
Obverse legend
NERO CAES AVG IMP
Reverse legend
CER QVINQ ROM CO S S C

Identification

Type reference
RIC I (second edition) Nero 233
Denomination and metal
Semis, Bronze
Obverse legend to match
NERO CAES AVG IMP
Reverse legend to match
CER QVINQ ROM CO S S C
Source note
Type description from the American Numismatic Society's Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE); individual specimens differ in die, flan size, weight and wear, and legend breaks may vary.

Documentation checklist

Denomination
Recorded
Issue or mint date
Recorded
Material
Recorded
Weight
Research required
Mint or printer
Recorded
Mint or printer mark
Research required
Catalogue reference
Recorded
Attached photograph (check rights)
Recorded

Recorded means a field is present, not independently verified. Read its wording, supporting source and the entry’s confidence level.

Catalogue references

Research required

  • Editorial verification required.
  • Weight, diameter and mint marks require specimen-level evidence.
  • Museum specimen photographs are linked by the source; local photographs and reuse rights remain unverified.
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