Sale: Triton VI, Lot: 821. Estimate $750.  Closing Date: Monday, 13 January 2003.  Sold For $900. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

NERO. 54-68 AD. Æ Dupondius (15.63 gm). Struck circa 63-64 AD. NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P, radiate head of Nero left / MAC AVG S C, front elevation of the Macellum, a two story building with steps leading to central cupola and statue in front; II below. RIC I 185; BMCRE 193; BN 293; WCN 207; Cohen -. Good VF, lightly smoothed. Struck on a broad medallic flan. ($750)

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.