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CM05083

Commodus, AE Sestertius, Adlocutio scene

Commodus (A.D. 177-192), AE Sestertius. Mint of Rome, struck A.D. 186. M COMMODVS ANT P FELIX AVG BRIT, laureate head facing right, rev. [CONC MIL P] M TR P XI - IMP VII - COS V P P, S - [C], Adlocutio scene: Commodus, togate, standing left on a raised platform, holding a sceptre and raising his right hand as he addresses a group of six soldiers standing facing him, FID EXERCIT in exergue, 19.28g., 5h (RIC 468d var. (obverse legend); C 138 var.; BMC 580 note). A superb example of this rare issue, with a wonderful and detailed depiction of an 'adlocutio' scene, good portrait, dark brown tone, extremely fine.

The adlocutio was the process by which the emperor addressed the army, delivering a formal military oration to the gathered troops. When depicted on coinage, the emperor is shown saluting the soldiers that stand before him as he delivers his speech. The adlocutio took place on important occasions, such as when an emperor acceded the throne, at the launch of a specific military campaign, or to mark a military victory. The oration might also be accompanied by a donative granted to the army.

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