CVC & Collectables presents this ancient Roman bronze Sestertius was issued posthumously in honor of Nero Claudius Drusus, father of Emperor Claudius and the Roman general Germanicus. Struck at the Rome Mint during the reign of Claudius, approximately AD 42–43, this substantial bronze coin features the portrait of Drusus and a reverse depicting Claudius seated among captured military equipment. The coin also bears an NCAPR countermark, adding another layer of historical significance. Certified NGC Very Good (VG), this example displays dark brown patina and recognizable ancient details.
Coin Highlights
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Empire: Roman Empire
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Honoree: Nero Claudius Drusus (Drusus the Elder)
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Issuing Emperor: Claudius (AD 41–54)
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Date: Approximately AD 42–43
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Denomination: Sestertius
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Mint: Rome
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Composition: Bronze
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Diameter: Approximately 37 mm (type specification)
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Weight: Approximately 30.09 g (supplied type specification)
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References: RIC I Claudius 109; BMC Claudius 208; Cohen 8; CBN Claudius 198
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Countermark: NCAPR
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Obverse: Bare head of Nero Claudius Drusus facing left
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Reverse: Emperor Claudius seated left on a curule chair, holding a branch, surrounded by captured arms and armor
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Grade: NGC Very Good (VG)
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Certification: NGC Ancients
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Certification Number: 8558888-008
Design & Devices
Obverse: Features the bare-headed portrait of Nero Claudius Drusus facing left, accompanied by a Latin inscription identifying him. The coin also bears an NCAPR countermark, a feature associated with the revalidation of circulating Roman bronze coinage during the early imperial period.
Reverse: Depicts Emperor Claudius seated left on a curule chair, extending a branch while captured weapons and armor lie around him. The composition emphasizes Roman military achievement and honors the legacy of Drusus as a successful commander.
Historical Significance
Nero Claudius Drusus was one of Rome’s most accomplished military commanders during the reign of Augustus. His campaigns into Germania helped expand Roman influence along the Rhine frontier.
Although Drusus died in 9 BC, his military accomplishments remained important to the Julio-Claudian dynasty. His son Claudius later became emperor in AD 41 and issued commemorative coinage honoring his father’s achievements.
The NCAPR countermark is particularly interesting to collectors. Commonly associated with the reign of Nero, its precise expansion remains debated, but it is generally understood as an official mark applied to existing bronze coinage.
Historical Figure – Nero Claudius Drusus
Nero Claudius Drusus (38–9 BC), commonly known as Drusus the Elder, was the younger brother of Emperor Tiberius and stepson of Augustus.
He commanded major Roman campaigns in Germania, advancing Roman military operations beyond the Rhine. His victories established him as one of the leading generals of the early Roman Empire.
Drusus died following an accident during a military campaign in 9 BC. His reputation endured through his descendants, including Emperor Claudius and his grandson, Emperor Caligula.
Condition & Collectibility
This example is certified NGC VG, displaying extensive circulation wear, dark brown surfaces, and an identifiable portrait and reverse design. The NCAPR countermark adds historical interest beyond the original commemorative issue.
Combining the military legacy of Drusus, the reign of Claudius, and a later Roman countermark, this Sestertius offers collectors multiple connections to the history of the Julio-Claudian dynasty. Find more alike here!
