Catalog
| Issuer | Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD) |
|---|---|
| Year | 68-69 |
| Type | Standard circulation coin |
| Value | 1 Sestertius = 1/4 Denarii |
| Currency | Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215) |
| Composition | Bronze |
| Weight | 24.5 g |
| Diameter | 35 mm |
| Thickness | |
| Shape | Round (irregular) |
| Technique | Hammered |
| Orientation | |
| Engraver(s) | |
| In circulation to | |
| Reference(s) | RIC I#268 |
| Obverse description | Head of Galba, laureate, left |
|---|---|
| Obverse script | Latin |
| Obverse lettering |
SER GALBA IMP CAES AVG (Translation: Servius Galba Imperator Caesar Augustus Servio Galba, supreme commander (Imperator), Caesar, and emperor (Augustus).) |
| Reverse description | Legend in three lines oak-wreath |
| Reverse script | Latin |
| Reverse lettering |
S P Q R O B CIV SER (Translation: Senatus Populusque Romanum Ob Cives Servatos The senate and the Roman people to the saviour of the citizens.) |
| Edge | |
| Mint | |
| Mintage |
ND (68-69) - - |
| Numisquare ID | 1013127270 |
| Additional information |
Historical Context: This Sestertius was issued during Servius Sulpicius Galba's brief, tumultuous reign (68-69 AD), marking the immediate aftermath of Nero's suicide and the "Year of the Four Emperors." As the first emperor recognized by the Senate post-Julio-Claudian dynasty, Galba desperately sought legitimacy. The powerful reverse legend, "S P Q R O B CIV SER" (The Senate and People of Rome for the Citizens Saved), boldly declared his role as a liberator and restorer of Roman values, directly repudiating Nero's tyranny.
Artistry: Though engravers are anonymous, the coin exemplifies the Roman imperial style of the late 1st century AD, transitioning towards mature realism. Galba's obverse portrait typically depicts an aged, stern visage, reflecting his military background and gravitas. The reverse design, often featuring a seated Libertas holding a pileus and rod, directly visualizes the legend, embodying the freedom and salvation Galba promised. The composition is robust, suited to the large bronze flan.
Technical/Grading: Given its substantial bronze flan (24.5 gg, 35 mm), this Sestertius often presents challenges for a full, even strike. Key high-points on the obverse include the laureate wreath, forehead hair, and nose tip. For the reverse figure, the head, shoulders, knees, and attributes like the pileus are most susceptible to wear or strike weakness. Collectors should examine centering, die state, and bronze fabric quality, as granular surfaces or planchet flaws are common.