4002
Item Sold At Auction #19
   ----------------------------------
 Lot Number: 61168
 Estimate: $500.00
 Final Sale Price: $506.00
   ----------------------------------
 Denomination: Dupondius
 Grade: Good Fine black patina
 Reference: RIC I 401; WCN 504

  Nero. 54-68 AD. Æ Dupondius (15.16 gm). Struck circa 65 AD. Lugdunum mint. NERO CLAVD
  CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, laureate head left, globe at point of bust / MAC
  AVG, S-C on either side of steps, frontal view of the Macellum; male statue holding
  sceptre through center door. RIC I 401; WCN 504. VF, black patina, porosity and minor
  smoothing. Estimate $500.
  The Macellum Magnum was Nero's great provision-market probably dating from 59 AD.
  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 St. Stefano Rotondo.


Used by permission of CNG, www.historicalcoins.com