Vitalianus, grandson of Aspar (a general of babarous descent) and general of the barbarian mercanaries, assumed the title of emperor in AD 514, and attempted to take Constantinople. But in this he was defeated by Anastasius I, and resigned the imperial title on receiving a large sum of money and the governmant of Thrace. On the death of Anastasius I it is said that Vitalian was recalled by Justin I, and made consul and magister militum, but shortly after was treacherously murdered at a banquet in the presence of Justin I and Justinian I.
No authentic coins of Vitalian are in existance.