Servius Sulpicius Galba, born in 3 BC, rose to prominence as an adept administrator and military leader. Appointed governor of Tarraconensis in 60 AD, he was proclaimed emperor by his troops during the turbulent period preceding Nero’s death in 68 AD.

Supported by the Senate, Galba assumed the throne in Rome with aspirations of restoring the Principate envisioned by Augustus. His coinage reflected his intent to establish a liberal empire distinct from the tyranny of his predecessors. However, his strict discipline and notorious greed soon alienated the army. On January 2, 69 AD, the legions in Lower Germania declared Vitellius emperor. Shortly after, a coup led by Otho resulted in Galba’s assassination in the Roman Forum on January 15, 69 AD.

In his final days, Galba’s physical appearance was a stark contrast to the dignified image on his coins. Small, bald, and afflicted with severe gout that deformed his hands and feet, he became unable to wear shoes and endured an unsightly growth on his right side. Despite his physical decline, the coins bearing his image remain among the most exquisite bronzes of the ancient world, rivaling the grandeur of the finest Roman sculptures. These masterpieces, marked by their extraordinary strength and artistry, continue to be celebrated as perfect examples of Roman numismatic excellence.

Sestertius June–August 68, Æ 28.12 g. SER GALBA IMP CAES AVG TR P Draped and laureate bust r. Rev. S – C Roma, helmeted and dressed, seated l. on cuirass with l. foot on helmet, holding vertical spear in r. hand and resting l. on shield; in exergue, ROMA. RIC 244. C 169. Cf. CBN 111 (bust not draped). BMC 89. A coin of great beauty with an exceptionally vigorous portrait in the finest style of this period. Undoubtedly one of the best sestertii of Galba in existence, superb brown-green patina, extremely fine.

Ex. Sangiorgi sale 7th May 1906 Sarti, lot 97; Ex. Glendining November 16, 1977 lot 21; Ex. NAC Auction 18 March 29, 2000 lot 462