DI-646 | RIC I (SE) Galba 167
Galba
Galba

Dynasty: Year of the Four Emperors
Emperor: Galba
Authority: Galba
Date and mint: AD 68/AD 69 - Rome


Obverse: Head of Galba, bare, right.
Legend: IMP SER GALBA AVG

Reverse: Legend in three lines oak wreath
Legend: S P Q R OB C S

Comment: Galba did not belong to a major dynasty, but was one of the emperors of the Year of the Four Emperors (AD 68-69), the period of instability that followed Nero's death. He briefly took power after Nero's suicide in AD 68. His short reign was marked by severity and administrative reform, but he became unpopular with the troops and was murdered in January AD 69. The Year of the Four Emperors saw several generals and political figures struggle for control of Rome. Galba, supported by the Senate and some legions, was proclaimed emperor in June AD 68. His government emphasized austerity, but his harshness and refusal to reward the soldiers undermined his position, leading to his betrayal by the Praetorian Guard and the rise of Otho. On the obverse, Galba's bare bust presents him in the imperial role. The reverse, with an oak wreath and SPQR OB CS, celebrates acts performed for the safety of Roman citizens and presents him as protector of the Roman people.

Provenance: Noble Numismatics Pty Ltd (2018)
Price: 2,203 €