Watch List notes:

AV Aureus Jan.–June 69 AD, VITELLIUS 69 AD Tarraco. Laureate head left A VITELLIVS IMP GERM(ANICVS). Rev. Libertas standing right head facing holding pileus LIBERTAS RESTITVTA.RIC 9; Coh. 50; BMC 88.After his two rivals Galba and Otho had perished, Vitellius was proclaimed the new emperor. His legacy has been predominately negative, and he is famously known for his gluttony. His expensive lifestyle, cruelty and all in all ineffectiveness made him very unpopular with the people. After a new enemy had appeared in the form of the future emperor Vespasian, his supporters quickly deserted him. On the return of the remaining loyal troops in Rome large-scale riots broke out. Vitellius and some of his relatives were dragged out of his house and lynched by the angry mob.

Probably the worst of the four emperors who ruled in 69 AD, Vitellius's coinage is in high demand from collectors. The specimen here on auction must be one of the finest extant Aurei of this emperor with full mint luster, fresh gold-toning and as-struck details.

Ex. Schulman Vault Collection.7.31 g. Planchet irregularity, yet strong portrait and full mint luster. NGC MS★. Strike 4 out of 5; Surface 3 out of 5