Nero is featured on this aureus in the first years of his reign, 55 - 56 CE. The portrait on the obverse is generic, and the reverse simply states a formulaic declaration of his endorsement by the Senate, “Pontifex Maximus, with Tribunician Power for the Second Time, Father of the Fatherland, by decree of the Senate.” However, great change was underfoot. Nero’s coinage would evolve to reflect a less ideal, more distinct and innovative style, depicting him more realistically, with an increasingly corpulent face to match his increasingly opulent lifestyle. While at the time of minting Nero was exercising restraint financially (under the influence of his tutors Seneca and Burrus), he would eventually disregard them, spending exorbitant amounts on entertainment (with himself as the main star, often), and projects like his Domus Aureus (Golden House – a mansion of staggering proportions). His coinage became debased, much like his reputation. First alienating himself from senators and his advisors, eventually Nero fell even under the suspicion of the people of Rome: when a great fire destroyed much of eleven of the fourteen regions of the city, the emperor was accused of setting it himself – conveniently allowing him to extend his palace over the now open land. KHK 2015.