Ancient Roman Coins: The Many Faces of Nero
Born on December 15 in the year 37 CE,
Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus was not necessarily destined for greatness. He was, however, the son of one of history’s most famous women,
Julia Agrippina (the Younger).
Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus, died in 40 CE, Julia quickly remarried to the popular Roman politician
Gaius Sallustius Crispus Passienus. Eight years later, Crispus died under suspicious circumstances, leaving Agrippina extremely wealthy.
She then saw a further opportunity to advance both her and her sons’ interests when her uncle, the emperor
Claudius, executed his third wife for treason in 48 CE. After their marriage the next year, Claudius adopted Lucius and had him renamed