Sestertius of Emperor Galba with Civic Crown Wreath
Sestertius of Emperor Galba with Civic Crown Wreath
Place of OriginItaly, Rome
Date68-69 CE
MediumBronze.
ClassificationMetalwork
Credit LineGift of the Popplestone Family
Object number
2006.109
Not on View
DescriptionA bronze sestertius of Galba (68–69 CE). The reverse features the legend SPQR / OB / CIV SER within an oak wreath, commemorating the "saving of citizens" (ob cives servatos) during the chaos following Nero's death (ref: RIC I 271).
Label TextMinted during the tumultuous "Year of the Four Emperors," this large bronze coin served as political propaganda for the short-lived Emperor Galba. The reverse inscription within the oak wreath translates to "The Senate and People of Rome, for saving the citizens." Galba used this ancient military honor—traditionally awarded for saving a comrade in battle—to claim he had rescued the Roman state from the tyranny of his predecessor, Nero.
after 87-89 CE
Libbey Glass Company, an operating division of Owens-Illinois Glass Company
1987
68-54 BCE
about 330-320 BCE
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