Watch List notes:

The Roman Empire
Nero augustus, 54 – 68

Sestertius circa 63, Æ 27.30 g. NERO CLAVDIVS CAESAR AVG GERM P M TR P IMP P P Laureate head l. Rev. DECVRSIO Nero prancing r.; before, foot soldier advancing r., looking backwards, holding vexillum. C 95. BMC 155. RIC 108. CBN 258.
Very rare and in exceptional condition for the issue. A bold portrait, work of a skilled
master engraver and an unusually finely detailed reverse composition. Brown
tone, minor porosity on reverse field, otherwise about Extremely fine

Ex Stack's Bowers and Ponterio sale 173, 2013, Ebert, 6061.

There are three distinct "DECVRSIO" types. This version, with soldier leading Nero and without the large "S C" on the reverse is the first issue and is far and away the rarest and hardest to find. This piece is unusually nice for the type. MSG.

The Decursio was a military exercise that Nero had instituted for the praetorian guard. It was an exhibition of equestrian skills which took on a form of pageantry shown here by the rearing horses. This is the first issue of this series instituted by Nero and is lacking the "S C" designation indicating the minting by senate approval. The design would be modified on future examples by the removal of the soldier leading the horses in the activity. Nero is identified as the horse rider and it is possible that the removal of the "walking guide" was done to make Nero look more accomplished. After all, a leader shouldn't need to be led! MSG.