NERO, A.D. 54-68. AE Sestertius (28.50 gms), Lugdunum Mint, A.D. 65. NGC AU, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5. Fine Style.RIC-438. Obverse: Laureate head right, with globus at point of neck; Reverse: Temple of Janus with latticed windows to left and garland hung across closed double doors to right. The enchanting piece offers a tremendous portrait of Nero, complete with intricate hair detail and an expressive face.The reverse type depicts the Temple of Janus--a center of worship dating back into the early days of the Republic. During times of war (which were most times), the doors would be open as a symbol of the strife. During the occasional times of peace, the doors would be closed in recognition of the tranquility. In A.D. 65, with peace having generally been obtained throughout the empire, Nero had the doors closed, as is seen on this sestertius.
