Nero & Poppaea Sabina Billon Tetradrachm — Alexandria, Egypt 54-68 AD

Ancient Egypt under Roman rule, billon tetradrachm of Nero, struck at Alexandria in regnal year 11, AD 64/65. The obverse shows the radiate head of Nero facing right, with Greek imperial legend around. The reverse features the draped bust of Poppaea Sabina facing right, with L IA in the right field indicating year 11.

This is a classic Alexandrian billon issue — technically “silver,” but with XRF testing showing approximately 18.57% silver and 81.08% copper, because apparently even Rome understood shrinkflation before Costco did. The coin has dark surfaces, honest wear, and rough provincial texture, but both portraits remain clearly visible.

A desirable paired portrait issue featuring one of Rome’s most infamous emperors and his equally famous wife.

Attribution: Egypt, Alexandria. Nero with Poppaea Sabina. Billon tetradrachm. Regnal Year 11, AD 64/65.

Diameter: 25mm
Weight: 13.5g
Metal: Billon
XRF: Ag 18.57%, Cu 81.08%, Pb 0.352%
Obverse: Radiate head of Nero right
Reverse: Draped bust of Poppaea Sabina right; L IA in right field
Condition: circulated ancient, dark surfaces, roughness, readable portraits and legends