2,000 year-old Roman coin discovered in Jerusalem.
Archaeologists have discovered a gold coin in Jerusalem bearing the face of Nero, the Roman Emperor best known for playing the fiddle while Ancient Rome burned.
The coin was likely struck in 56-57 AD, researchers say. The Romans took control of the city in 63 BC after what became known as the Siege of Jerusalem.
“The coin is exceptional because this is the first time that a coin of this kind has turned up in Jerusalem in a scientific dig,” said Shimon Gibson, co-director of the excavation.
“Coins of this type are usually only found in private collections, where we don’t have clear evidence as to place of origin.”
One side of the coin, known in Latin as an aureus, shows a portrait of Nero as Caesar. Many Roman emperors took the title of Caesar or Augustus to mean emperor.
The lettering around the edge says “NERO CAESAR AVG IMP,” referring to his name and position. The reverse of the coin shows an oak wreath with the letter “EX S C” and “PONTIF MAX TR P III,” which allowed archaeologists to date the coin.
Source: CNN.
