69 AD Ancient Rome Imperial - Otho - Silver Denarius

Product Description:

NGC VF
2156014-005
Strike: 4/5
Surface: 5/5

This coin was produced during a time of extreme turmoil and a power vacuum in the Roman Empire after the death of Nero. Otho of whom this coin dawns his portrait was a friend and supporter of his predecessor, Galba and would support him on his March to Rome and his rise as Emperor, he did this seeking to be appointed as Galba's heir should he succeed in becoming emperor. Galba would succeed and ultimately betray Otho by appointing another as his heir, much to Otho's dismay. Otho would then plot and succeed in Galba's assassination by his own Praetorian guard.

Otho would then proclaim himself emperor, this would be short lived as Galba plotted against him during his last day. He would sow distrust in Otho in many of the far flung territories of Rome, specifically Germania where many had declared their allegiance to another, Vitellius. Otho would commit suicide after only 3 months in power with some describing this as a courageous act. It is said the main reason for his suicide was to steer the empire away from a long and bloody civil war which seemed inevitable, something the Empire had become accustomed to in recent decades. The year 69 was a tumultuous and stressful one as 4 different Caesars would rule the Empire and ultimately be defeated. Nero, Galba, Otho, And finally Vitaellius. This time is known as "The Year of the Four Emperors".

Obverse: bare head of Otho

Reverse: Securitas draped standing left with right hand holding wreath left hand with sceptre,

Ex Dr Hugh Preston Collection. Previously Rauch March 2001