Roman Denarius Coin

Inv. No.: c083
Date: A.D. 97.
Weight: 3.41g
 
Obv.: Nerva, laureate.
IMP.NERVA CAES.AVG.P.M.TR.P.COS.III P.P.

Rev.: Hands clasped.
CONCORDIA EXERCITVVM

The portrait makes no attempt at idealisation, being almost cruelly frank. Lined brow, hollow cheeks and scrawny neck are strong evidence of frailty. There are signs, too, of gentleness and refinement. The portrait style is consistent throughout Nerva coinage.

The reverse is a classic example of wishful thinking. armony among the armies?was conspicuous by its absence during the crisis triggered by Nerva refusal to execute the murderers of Domitian, to whom the soldiers were devoted. Threatened with a general mutiny, Nerva tried to play off one legion against another. The problem was finally solved when Nerva adopted Trajan as his son and co-ruler in October, 97.

Comparanda:
RIC, Nerva 14.