Reproduction Dupondius of Nero - Macellum Magnum

Obverse: Laureate bust of Nero right. Text around NERO CLAVD CAESAR AVG GER P M TR P IMP P P.

Reverse: Façade of the Macellum Magnum: nude male statue standing facing within cylindrical arched tetrastyle entrance set on tiered base with central staircase; upper tristyle story surmounted by ornate conical dome; ornate gating in intercolumnations; two-story tristyle porch on either side; one intercolumnation arched on right wing; upper story garlanded. Text to left MAC to right AVG and S C on either side of steps.

History: 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 Rome’s Caelian Hill. During the turbulent fifth century AD, the building fell into partial ruin, until it was transformed into the church of St. Stefano Rotondo under Pope Simplicius (468-482).

Date: Lugdunum mint, Struck circa 65 AD

Diameter: 3cm