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Orbis Collectibles

RIC I (second edition) Vitellius 68

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · research required

Issuing entity

Roman Empire

RIC I (second edition) Vitellius 68. Denomination: Denarius. Authority: Vitellius. Mint: Rome. The obverse shows head of Vitellius, bare, right, with the legend A VITELLIVS GERMANICVS IMP.

The reverse shows jupiter, naked to waist, seated left, holding Victory in right and sceptre in left, with the legend IVPPITER VICTOR.

Evidence at a glance

Linked sources
2
Photograph views
5
Catalogue references
1

Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.

Historical context

Aulus Vitellius served as Roman emperor for eight months, ruling from 19 April to 20 December AD 69. His reign took place during the civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors, following the brief rules of Galba and Otho. Proclaimed emperor by the armies of Germania Inferior and Superior, Vitellius secured recognition from the Roman Senate after defeating Otho at the Battle of Bedriacum.

The obverse carries the legend "A VITELLIVS GERMANICVS IMP", reflecting his adoption of the honorific title Germanicus rather than Caesar upon his accession. The reverse depicts Jupiter holding Victory and a sceptre, accompanied by the inscription "IVPPITER VICTOR". Vitellius ruled until his defeat and execution in Rome by the soldiers of Vespasian.

Physical characteristics

Material
Silver
Denomination
Denarius

Technical characteristics

Mint
Rome
Authority
Vitellius

Design

Obverse
Head of Vitellius, bare, right
Reverse
Jupiter, naked to waist, seated left, holding Victory in right and sceptre in left
Obverse legend
A VITELLIVS GERMANICVS IMP
Reverse legend
IVPPITER VICTOR

Identification

Type reference
RIC I (second edition) Vitellius 68
Denomination and metal
Denarius, Silver
Obverse legend to match
A VITELLIVS GERMANICVS IMP
Reverse legend to match
IVPPITER VICTOR
Source note
Type description from the American Numismatic Society's Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE); individual specimens differ in die, flan size, weight and wear, and legend breaks may vary.

Documentation checklist

Denomination
Recorded
Issue or mint date
Recorded
Material
Recorded
Weight
Research required
Mint or printer
Recorded
Mint or printer mark
Research required
Catalogue reference
Recorded
Attached photograph (check rights)
Recorded

Recorded means a field is present, not independently verified. Read its wording, supporting source and the entry’s confidence level.

Catalogue references

Research required

  • Editorial verification required.
  • Weight, diameter and mint marks require specimen-level evidence.
  • Museum specimen photographs are linked by the source; local photographs and reuse rights remain unverified.
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