In Greek mythology, what did Hercules wear as protection after killing the Nemean Lion?

After killing the Nemean Lion, Hercules wore the lion’s skin as protective armor.

The Nemean Lion had an exceptionally tough hide that ordinary weapons could not pierce. Hercules first tried his usual weapons, but they were ineffective. He eventually strangled the lion with his immense strength. Because even his knife could not cut the hide, Hercules used one of the lion’s own claws to remove it.

Hercules then wore the skin as armor and used the lion’s open jaws as a distinctive helmet. Ancient and later artists commonly identify Hercules by this pelt, often shown draped over his shoulders with a club in his hand.

The lion skin is not the same object as the Golden Fleece sought by Jason and the Argonauts. The Golden Fleece belonged to the ram Chrysomallos, while Hercules’ protective covering came from the monster of Nemea. The lion’s defeat formed the first of the traditional Twelve Labors.