Description
Nero, Dupondius, 62-68, Rome
RIC I (second edition) Nero 184.
Obv.: NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, Head of Nero, radiate, right.
Rev.: MAC AVG S C II (mark of value), Front view of the Macellum Magnum; above the steps, male figure standing, left, holding sceptre.
15.43 g
27 mm
Smoothing.
NGC Ch VF, Strike: 5/5, Surface: 3/5, light smoothing (Broken out of the slab(# 6835388-002)).
Ex. Classical Numismatic Group, Triton XXVII (9 January 2024), lot 693(Hammered 2000$US); Ex. Künker 193, 26 September 2011, lot 574 (Hammered 1300€); Ex. Künker 158, 28 September 2009, lot 533 (Hammered 1100€).
The Macellum Magnum was Nero’s great provision-market, probably dating from AD 59. This magnificent structure, originally occupying the middle of a square lined with porticoes and shops, was located on the Caelian Hill. It survived in its original state until the late 4th century, when its dilapidated condition necessitated a major reconstruction. During the turbulent 5th century the building again fell into partial ruin and in the latter part of the century it was transformed under Pope Simplicius (468-482) into the church of S. Stefano Rotondo. (Taken from CNG)
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