Quadrans (S C; Minerva) (84-85) front Quadrans (S C; Minerva) (84-85) back
Quadrans (S C; Minerva) (84-85) photo
© Bibliothèque nationale de France / Gallica

Quadrans S C; Minerva

 
Bronze 2.7 g 18 mm
Description
Issuer
Rome › Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD)
Emperor
Domitian (Titus Flavius Domitianus) (81-96)
Type
Standard circulation coin
Years
84-85
Value
1 Quadrans = ¼ As = 1⁄64 Denarius
Currency
Denarius, Reform of Augustus (27 BC – AD 215)
Composition
Bronze
Weight
2.7 g
Diameter
18 mm
Shape
Round (irregular)
Technique
Hammered
Demonetized
Yes
Updated
2024-10-06
References
Numista
N#251668
Rarity index
100%

Reverse

Owl standing left on branch, looking front.

Script: Latin

Lettering: S C

Translation:
Senatus Consultum.
Decree of the senate.

Comment

Mass varies: 2.373–3 g;
Diameter varies: 17.46–19 mm;
Source: Online Coins of the Roman Empire (OCRE)

Interesting fact

The Quadrans coin was used during the Roman Empire and was equivalent to one-fourth of a denarius, which was the standard unit of currency at the time. The Quadrans coin features an image of the goddess Minerva on one side and an image of a fasces, a bundle of rods bound together, on the other. The fasces symbolized the power and authority of the Roman state. It's interesting to note that the Quadrans coin was made of bronze, which was a common material for coins during that time period. The use of bronze for coins was practical because it was durable, abundant, and relatively inexpensive compared to other metals. The Quadrans coin weighed 2.7 grams, which was a relatively small weight compared to other coins used during the Roman Empire. Overall, the Quadrans coin is an interesting piece of history that provides insight into the economic and political systems of the Roman Empire during that time period.