Vitellius Gold Gold
Extremely Fine: Up to: £35,000
Coins from the reign of Vitellius (April–December AD 69) are notoriously difficult to find in high grades because his rule lasted only eight months during the chaotic “Year of the Four Emperors”. While his silver denarii are the most common entry point for collectors, his gold aurei and bronze sestertii are considered major rarities of the Roman Imperial series.
Most Valuable Vitellius Coins
Rarity is driven by the brief production window and the high demand from “Twelve Caesars” set collectors.
- Gold Aureus (Tarraco Mint, Victory Reverse): This is one of the highest rarities in Roman gold, possibly struck in Spain. It features a laureate head of Vitellius and Victory holding a shield inscribed “SPQR”.
- Market Value: An Extremely Fine (EF) specimen is currently valued at approximately £35,000.
- Mintage Information: Classified as “extremely rare,” with fewer than 10 examples of this specific type known to exist.
- Bronze Sestertius (Mars or Pax Reverse): Large bronze coins of Vitellius are among the most difficult denominations to source for this reign.
- Market Value: High-grade specimens (Choice XF) have recently realised between €3,000 and €3,800 (approx. £2,500–£3,150). A rare “Judaea Capta” commemorative sestertius recently sold for $6,500 (approx. £5,100).
- Mintage Information: “Excessively rare”; the Numista Rarity Index scores these at 100/100.
- Silver Denarius (Tripod/Dolphin/Raven): A popular silver issue featuring symbols of the XV Viri Sacris Faciundis, a religious college Vitellius belonged to.
- Market Value: A Choice About Uncirculated (Ch AU) specimen is currently priced at £7,490. Standard Very Fine (VF) examples typically range from £275 to £734.
- Mintage Information: While more numerous than gold, these are still considered “scarce” due to the eight-month reigning window