Roma Numismatics Ltd
E-Sale 32 7 January 2017
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Nero Æ Sestertius. Lugdunum, AD 66. IMP NERO CAESAR AVG PONT MAX T R POT P P, laureate head right / Nero on horseback to right, holding spear; behind him, soldier on horseback right, holding vexillum; S-C across field, DECVRSIO in exergue. RIC 508. 24.65g, 33mm, 7h.
Near Extremely Fine. Rare. Beautiful Patina.
The decursio was a military exercise of mock combat or a display of equestrian skill made by horse-riders and charioteers at public games. Despite Nero's provision of regular games, the presence of the vexillum on this type suggests a more military character to the scene. It has been suggested that the reverse refers to Nero's institution of cavalry manoeuvres for the Praetorian Guard. An alternative interpretation is that there is a link to Nero's fondness of racing horses, although Stevenson (DRC) disregards this. He explains that the speed of the horses is not sufficiently rapid".
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Near Extremely Fine. Rare. Beautiful Patina.
The decursio was a military exercise of mock combat or a display of equestrian skill made by horse-riders and charioteers at public games. Despite Nero's provision of regular games, the presence of the vexillum on this type suggests a more military character to the scene. It has been suggested that the reverse refers to Nero's institution of cavalry manoeuvres for the Praetorian Guard. An alternative interpretation is that there is a link to Nero's fondness of racing horses, although Stevenson (DRC) disregards this. He explains that the speed of the horses is not sufficiently rapid".
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