GALBA (AD 68–69) Gold Aureus, Rome Mint, AD 68–69Weight: 7.26 g Obverse: IMP SER GALBA AVG. Bare head of Galba to right, rendered in a distinctive and expressive portrait style. Reverse: SPQR OB CS within an oak wreath (corona civica). References: RIC I 164; Cohen 286; RSC 2093 A highly attractive and historically important aureus struck during the brief reign of Galba in the turbulent “Year of the Four Emperors.” This example is notable for its refined and less commonly encountered portrait style, presenting a characterful and detailed depiction of the emperor, differing from the more standardized issues often seen for this type. The reverse displays the corona civica enclosing the inscription SPQR OB CS, a reference to the Senate’s award for the preservation of Roman citizens, a potent symbol of legitimacy at the outset of Galba’s rule. Condition: Very Fine+ approaching Extremely Fine in overall detail. Well centered with clear and fully legible legends. The portrait retains strong definition and eye appeal, while the reverse wreath is complete and well articulated. Minor surface irregularities consistent with the grade do not detract from the overall attractiveness of the piece. Provenance: Ex Collection of Dr. Raoul-E. Doranlo (1875–1958), former President of the Société des Antiquaires de Normandie; thence by descent. Dr. Doranlo was a respected French scholar and antiquarian who formed his collection in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period associated with careful connoisseurship and the acquisition of high-quality classical material. Coins from his collection are rarely encountered today and are appreciated for their longstanding presence in traditional European cabinets. The present aureus has remained off the market for decades, offering collectors a rare opportunity to acquire a specimen with genuine old collection pedigree. Such provenance enhances both the historical significance and desirability of the coin, while also providing reassurance regarding authenticity and long term collecting history. An appealing example combining solid preservation, distinctive portraiture, and an important early provenance, of a ruler whose short reign ensures enduring collector demand.