I don’t believe this explanation of RRC 402/1 but it is still interesting to have on file as one in the range of interpretations that have been put forward:
From Nousek 2008.
Grateful for the comments that pointed me to a parallel, but more fully argued discussion by Harlan!
Liv Mariah Yarrow 
There is a decent analysis of this controversy (and his own proposed “resolution”) in Michael Harlan’s Roman Republican Moneyers And Their Coins 81BCE – 65 BCE (2012, Moneta Publications). It is his Chapter 21, pp. 126-130 and, if you’ve not read it, it might be worth a look.
Just rereading it this morning… The competitive aspect of Pompey’s actions is certainly worth considering. I like his comparative evidence of the Crassus/Gladiators.