Quadrans (APRONIVS MESSALLA A A A F F S C) (5 BC) front Quadrans (APRONIVS MESSALLA A A A F F S C) (5 BC) back
Quadrans (APRONIVS MESSALLA A A A F F S C) (5 BC) photo
© American Numismatic Society (ANS)

Quadrans APRONIVS MESSALLA A A A F F S C 5 BC

5 BC year
Bronze 3.1 g 17 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Augustus (Caius Octavius) (27 BC - 14 AD)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Year
5 BC
Value
1 Quadrans = ¼ As = 1⁄64 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
3.1 g
Diameter
17 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#247944
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Legend surrounding S C.

Script: Latin

Lettering:
APRONIVS MESSALLA A A A F F
S C

Unabridged legend:
Apronius, Messalla, Argento, Aere Flando Feriundo.
Senatus Consulto.

Translation:
Apronius, Messalla, Argento, Aere, Flando, Feriundo. Senatus Consultum.
Apronius and Messalla, casting and striking gold, silver, and bronze. Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.84–3.318 g;
Diameter varies: 16.93–17 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Quadrans coin features an interesting reverse design, which depicts a jug and a lituus, symbols of the Roman goddess of agriculture and fertility, Ceres. This suggests that the coin may have been used as a token for agricultural or commercial transactions.