My retainer found something interesting...

[HEC]

So am I correct in assuming that, while the patch notes said there were no items unique to Quick Exploration

Exact opposite actually - there are items obtainable only by Quick Exploration according the the patch notes.

[Espritduo]

Exact opposite actually - there are items obtainable only by Quick Exploration according the the patch notes.

From the notes:

"Quick Exploration
Upon reaching level 10, retainers can undertake quick exploration ventures. Retainers assigned to quick exploration will always come back with a single item, which will remain unknown until the venture is completed. The amount of experience earned will vary depending on the item found.
* There are no items unique to quick exploration ventures."

It's the Exploration (18 hour) Ventures that the notes say may bring back unique items:

"* Although retainers will procure items randomly, higher-level retainers may procure items, minions, and crafting materials unique to exploration ventures."