Coin (reverse), Denarius, of Vitellius

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This silver coin was minted in Rome by the emperor Vitellius in 69 AD. It is a type called a denarius, the most common Roman silver coin. This picture shows the reverse of the coin.

The reverse depicts Libertas, the goddess of freedom, holding a cap and long rod. The legend 'LIBERTAS RESTITVTA' (Freedom Restored) is symbolic of the Roman constitution or the emperor's support of it. The design is a direct reference to political events of the year from Vitellius's viewpoint.

The years 68 to 69 AD saw civil wars in the empire as several men tried to assume control of the Empire. Galba seized control from Nero in 68, but in turn was murdered the following year on Otho's orders. Otho only ruled three months before the forces of Vitellius defeated him. On his suicide, Vitellius became emperor, only to lose to Vespasian later in the year.

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• Online ID: 000-180-001-499-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland Part 2
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• Ref: National Museums Scotland  
• Date: Minted in 69 AD
  
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• References:
  • Sutherland, C.H.V. The Roman Imperial Coinage. From 31 BC to AD 69. Vol. 1, revised ed. London: Spink and Son Ltd, 1984. 
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