Ancient Rome - 69 AD Vitellius AV Aureus NGC XF in Fine Style

Exceptionally rare type struck in Year of the Four Emperors

69 AD Vitellius AV Aureus, graded NGC XF. Strike: 5/5, Surface: 3/5. Rome Mint, AD 69. Obverse: A VITELLIVS GERMAN IMP TR P, laureate head to right. Reverse: SPQR OB C S, in three lines within oak wreath. SPQR on the coin's reverse stood for Senatus Populusque Romanus (the Senate and the Roman people). In ancient times, it showed the unity of the Roman empire by referring to its two parts: the Roman Senate and her people. OB C S means OB CIVES SERVATOS--"for saving the citizens." Sources: BCM 14; Calico 574; Coh. 85; RIC-82.

An exceptionally rare type, struck during the Year of the Four Emperors, this example delivers much drama despite some evidence of handling and circulation. The obverse design and strike present a realistic and cruel Vitellius. This is an attractive example that would serve any collector of Aurei who is looking to cross Vitellius off their list.

Pseudo-Bust of Roman Emperor Vitellius. Photo: wikipedia.

Vitellius was emperor for just eight months in 69 AD. He was declared emperor after the quick succession of the preceding emperors Galba and Otho, in a year of civil war famous in Roman history as the 'Year of the Four Emperors.'  Vitellius was the first Roman ruler to add the honorific cognomen of Germanicus to his name rather than Caesar after becoming emperor. Similar to his predecessors, Vitellius endeavored to unite public support to his cause by honoring and emulating Nero, who was still quite well-liked throughout the empire.

His authority was soon confronted by legions stationed in Rome's eastern provinces, where their commander Vespasian was proclaimed emperor to supplant Vitellius. This challenge led to war, resulting in a devastating loss at the Second Battle of Bedriacum in northern Italy. After coming to the realization that he was losing support, Vitellius attempted to abdicate in favor of Vespasian. However, his forces would not allow it, and he had to battle Vespasian's forces in a bloody standoff in Rome itself. He was executed in the imperial capital by Vespasian's troops in December of 69.