Semis - Nero CERT QVINQ ROM CO S S C

The CERT QVINQ ROM CO reverse references the Neronia, a Greek-style festival Nero instituted in 60 AD modeled on the Olympian games, complete with competitions in music, gymnastics, and oratory. The games were deeply unpopular with the Roman aristocracy, who considered public performance beneath senatorial dignity. Nero competed personally and, predictably, won.

The SC on this bronze marks senatorial authority over the aes coinage — a constitutional formality that Nero increasingly treated as such.