NERO CLAUDIUS DRUSUS (Died 9 BC). Denarius. Lugdunum. Struck under Claudius (41-54).

Obv: NERO CLAVDIVS DRVSVS GERMANICVS IMP.
Head left, wearing oak wreath.
Rev: DE / GERM.
Triumphal arch surmounted by equestrian statue right between two trophies and two seated captives with tied hands behind their backs; the one on left looking right, the one on right facing.

RIC² 70 (Claudius).

Very rare

Nero Claudius Drusus Germanicus was a member of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, son of Augustus' third wife, Livia Drusilla, and younger brother of the future emperor Tiberius. Augustus granted him numerous privileges, allowing him to hold various public offices several years before the age permitted by law. He married Antonia Minor, daughter of Mark Antony and Octavia Minor (sister of Augustus). She bore him several children, including Germanicus and the future emperor Claudius. Drusus is remembered above all as a great Roman general. In 16 BC, he took part in the Rhaetian campaign, defeating the Isarci, Breoni, and Reti tribes and, together with Tiberius, the Vindelici, contributing to the creation of new Roman provinces (Rhaetia and Noricum) in the Alpine region. He was then sent to Transalpine Gaul in 14 BC to build roads and fortified bases along the Rhine. In 13 BC, he successfully commanded military operations against the rebellious tribes of the Rhine. Finally, he took part in campaigns in Germany, where the Romans subjugated Frisi and Batavi. Drusus led the legions in several offensive operations and successfully defended himself against numerous ambushes. Upon his return to Rome in 11 BC, he received triumphal honors and his soldiers conferred on him the title of “imperator.” Back in Germany, his brilliant military career was suddenly interrupted in 9 BC by a fall from his horse. The injury to his femur ultimately led him to death, watched over by Tiberius, who celebrated his funeral.

Condition: Near extremely fine.

Weight: 3.69 g.
Diameter: 18 mm.