Watch List notes:

The Roman Empire

Nero augustus, 54 – 68. Sestertius Lugdunum circa 65, Æ 28.43 g. NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR IMP P P Laureate bust l. with globe at point of bust. Rev. S – C Triumphal arch decorated with friezes of battle scenes surmounted by statue of emperor in quadriga accompanied by Pax and Victory and flanked by two soldiers; inside niche of arch, a nude statue of helmeted Mars. C 306. BMC 330. RIC 433. CBN 69.
A wonderful untouched enamel-like green patina and an incredibly detailed
reverse composition. Extremely fine / good extremely fine

Coins sometimes are the only evidence that survives to illustrate lost Roman monuments, such as the Arcus Neronis, a monument that probably did not long survive Nero's downfall. Details of the date and the location of the arch are sketchy, but the coinage provides an excellent understanding of its form, and, with some variety, we can appreciate the relief's decorative elements and statues that adorned it.
It is generally accepted that the arch celebrates the victories of the general Corbulo over the Parthians, and that it was built on the Capitoline Hill sometime between 58 and 62. Its precise location has not been determined from ancient sources or from archaeological investigation, though proximity to the Temple of Vejovis or the Temple of Jupiter Capitolinus have both been suggested.
This coin was struck during one of the rare moments of peace within the Empire. Suetonius (Nero 15) describes the visit to Rome of Tiridates, Rome's candidate for the throne of the buffer-state Armenia after Corbulo's victories over the Parthians. Tiridates made a ceremonial supplication to Nero, was crowned king of his native land, after which, Suetonius reports, "The people then hailed Nero as Imperator and, after dedicating a laurel-wreath in the Capitol, he closed the double doors of the Temple of Janus, as a sign that all war was at an end."