RIC 0408 Vespasian

Æ Quadrans, 2.06g
Rome Mint, 72-73 AD
Obv: IMP VESPASIAN AVG; Palm tree
Rev: P M TR P P P · COS IIII; S C in field; Vexillum
RIC 408 (R). BMC 626. BNC -. Hendin 1571.
Acquired from Calgary Coin, March 2021.

During Vespasian's reign the Rome mint produced sporadic issues of quadrantes. Their rarity today is likely a result of them being of low value and typically not hoarded. Mimicking the larger bronzes, the Jewish War victory was celebrated on them as well. Because of the small flan size brevity is called for: a palm tree representing Judaea on the obverse, and a Vexillum symbolising military victory on the reverse - straight and to the point! Ironically, despite their rarity today, more of the plebeian population would have seen these quadrantes than their more famous 'Judaea Capta' silver or bronze cousins. This specimen is remarkably well preserved for the denomination, perhaps it was lost soon after striking.

Missing from the Paris collection.