Lot 4305

Description

Civil Wars, (A.D. 68-69), silver denarius (3.05 g), minted in Spain, obv. draped bust of Libertas to right around LIBERTAS RESTITVTA, rev. a round shield inscribed S P Q R, all within wreath, (S.2069, RIC II 27, RSC 431, Martin 91). Nearly very fine, porous surface, very rare.

Ex Dr Adrian Carr Collection and purchased from CNG Electronic Auction, No.157, January 31, 2007, (lot 327).

On April 2nd or 3rd A.D. 68, Galba was hailed imperator by Spanish legions at Carthago Nova. Refusing to accept the title, he acted as legatus of the Senate and Roman people. Galba was openly supportive of the revolt of Vindex who also had the support of the Arverni and Remi among other of the Gallic tribes. At Vesontio in May of that year, the rival armies of Verginius and Vindex clashed, resulting in the death of Vindex and the utter destruction of his army. Shaken at the failure of Vindex, Galba stated publicly that he would not attempt to seize the empire. In the middle of June, Galba was appointed princeps by the Senate upon the death of Nero. One of Galba's main motivations for supporting Vindex's revolt had been the role of the Senate in restoring constitutional freedom. Thus the reason for the Libertas Restituta type.