The coins of Galba are among my favorite when it comes to ancients. Specifically, I like the cut of the portraits which mirror realistically the severe and stern character, for which he was renowned. As is well known, he was a a good general and an able administrator, but not exactly savvy when dealing with the troops under his command. This ultimately caused his downfall in 69 a.d after only a very brief reign due to his stern command, and his refusal to buy the allegiance of the pretorians guards. Amongst the Galba reverses, one of my favorites are the wreath reverses. These were used in denarii, aureii, sestertii, and dupondi. I have in my collection the bronzes and the silver. Here is my latest addition, a denarius with the wreath reverse. The wreath denarii of Galba are in my opinion not rare, but are quite sought after, and this affects the prices. I particularly like the portrait on this coin.
Im not a fan of wreaths only because I got sick of them on U.S. coinage. Both Galba's are sweet though, especially the denarius. Really slick portrait. The engraved letters on it are also excellent/interesting.
What a great looking coin. :thumb: Question: While looking at other examples of Galba at acsearch I saw the complete inscription on the reverse: http://www.acsearch.info/record.html?id=8304 SPQR OP CIVES SERVATOS I get the SPQR: Senatus Populusque Romanus "The Senate and the people of Rome. What's the translation for the rest of the reverse of the inscription? Once, again, nice coin. guy
Guy, RIC describes the Legend "SPQR OB Cives Servatos" as being Galba's campaign motto so to speak, and meaning "By the Senate and People of Rome (SPQR), for saving the Citizenry". Specifically, for saving Rome through his military leadership after the troubled period following Nero's death.
Thank you, Randy. I'm back to ancients again after spending some time concentrating on my U.S and German collection.
Welcome Back. Thats what I did about 2 months ago, finish most of my U.S. coin type set. Now all my coin $ is going into ancients again.
