Episode VII — Nero and Salus: Health of the State
The Nero SALVS denarius with Salus seated holding a patera — no serpent, no altar — reflects a later phase.
The obverse shows a heavier Nero, more fleshed and mature. The reverse is composed, restrained: SALVS.
Without the serpent, the emphasis shifts from ritual healing to abstract stability. After fire, conspiracy, and unrest, the coin declares the empire safe.
It is reassurance struck in silver — whether deserved or not.