VITELLIUS, A.D. 69. AE Sestertius (27.51 gms), Rome Mint, ca. A.D. Late April to 20 December 69.cf.RIC-123. "A VITELLIVS GERMANICVS IMP AVG P M TR P" Laureate and draped bust of Vitellius facing right; Reverse: "VICTORIA AVGVSTI" Victory standing right, left foot on helmet, inscribing: "OB / CIVES / SERV" on shield set on palm tree, "S - C" at either side. Fields have been lightly smoothed. Well struck with fine style dies displaying a wonderful high relief portrait. Dark patina and quite good eye appeal.<p>Vitellius, commander of the important Germanic legions, ascended to the highest station of the Roman order by seizing upon the chaos that followed the suicide of Nero and outright bribery of Otho. Vitellius dispatched two veteran legions to march on Rome, whose decisive victories forced Otho into an early and permanent retirement by suicide. Having secured the throne, Vitellius proceeded to indulge his excesses, feasting three times a day, and hosting lavish parades, quickly draining the treasury. Vitellius would rule as emperor for a mere eight months.NGC AU, Strike: 5/5 Surface: 3/5. Fine Style, Smoothing.
