Quinar

The quinar, also known by its Latin name quinarius, is a historical Roman coin with special significance in numismatics. Originally designed as a silver coin, the quinar is half the value of a denarius and was minted primarily during the Roman Republic, but also in the early imperial period. Its introduction dates back to the late 3rd century BC and it was typically valued at five asses, which was equivalent to half a denarius. This valuation also explains the name ‘quinarius’, which is derived from the Latin word quinque for ‘five’.
Silver quinarii were mainly minted when there was a need for smaller denominations, for example for fine-grained payments or in regional trade, especially in areas with a strong Celtic presence. In fact, the quinar was particularly popular in the western provinces of the Roman Empire, where it was used for longer than in Rome itself. The typical coin design of the silver quinar usually showed the helmeted head of Roma on the obverse and Victoria on a chariot on the reverse – motifs similar in style to the denarius, but executed on a smaller scale.
In addition to the silver version, the quinar also exists as a gold coin – in this form, it represents half the value of the aureus. The gold quinar was rarer and was mostly used for ceremonial or special purposes within the Roman coinage system. Its high value and limited mintage make it a particularly sought-after object in ancient numismatics today.
For collectors and historians, the quinar offers a fascinating insight into the intricacies of the Roman monetary system. It illustrates the economic considerations behind Roman coinage policy, which was tailored to the needs of different regions and markets. In a numismatic context, the quinar is not only an important link between the denarius and the aureus, but also a testament to the sophisticated diversity and adaptability of the Roman monetary economy. Its rarity, especially in gold, and its historical significance make it a valued addition to any discerning coin collection.