Nero. A.D. 54-68. Orichalcum sestertius. 27.47 gm. 35 mm. Lugdunum (Lyon) mint. Struck circa A.D 67. His laureate head left, globe at point of bust; IMP NERO CAESAR AVG P MAX TR POT P P / Ceres seated left, veiled and draped, holding corn-ears and torch, facing Annona standing right, holding cornucopia; between them, modius on garlanded altar; ship's stern behind; ANNONA AVGVSTI CERES around, S C in exergue. RIC I 572 (R). Good Very Fine; well centered on a broad flan. Splendid orichalcum surface; bold detailed portrait in high relief; minor short striking split at 3'. Rare, and rare with head left.

Ex Davissons Auction 21 (10 June 2004) lot 68 (PR $1600).

Ceres was the Roman goddess of agriculture and Annona, whose appearance on coins begins with Nero's reign, signifies the year's harvest. Rome was dependent on shipping for its food supplies, and this marvelous reverse depicts a fundamental aspect of Roman life.