Ancient Rome 69AD S2198 Rev Vitellius Silver Denarius VF-EF (VF30)

Ancient Rome 69AD S2198 Rev S2200 Obv Vitellius Silver Denarius VF-EF (VF30)

Aulus Vitellius (15–69 CE) was the third emperor of the tumultuous Year of the Four Emperors, ruling from April to December 69 CE. Originally a career politician and governor of Germania Inferior, he was proclaimed emperor by his troops and quickly advanced on Rome after Otho’s suicide. Known for his indulgence and extravagance, Vitellius gained a reputation for gluttony and excess, though he also tried to portray himself as a generous leader. His reign was short-lived, as legions in the eastern provinces declared for Vespasian, whose forces marched on Rome and defeated Vitellius’s supporters. Captured and brutally executed by Vespasian’s soldiers, Vitellius’s fall marked the violent struggle for power that defined 69 CE, before the Flavian dynasty restored stability.

Obverse: Laureate head of Vitellius, facing right.
Reverse: Libertas, draped and standing facing outward, with her head turned to the right, holding a pileus in her right hand and a rod in her left, with the legend around.

Specifications:
Emperor: VItellius (69)
Composition: Silver
Weight: Approx. 3 g
Diameter: 19 mm
Mint: Rome