As - Nero GENIO AVGVSTI, Genius

Nero's Genius coinage belongs to the later phase of his reign, after the great fire of 64 AD and the financial strain of rebuilding Rome fundamentally destabilized imperial finances. The bronze denominations of this period were progressively debased in weight — early Neronian asses ran heavier, and surviving examples from the 65–68 window frequently fall below the theoretical standard, reflecting systematic reduction rather than simple wear.

Nero's assassination in 68 triggered the Year of the Four Emperors, during which much Neronian bronze was simply kept in circulation for lack of replacement.