Ancient Roman Coins Discovered in Spain
Recently, Spanish authorities revealed an impressive collection of ancient Roman coins, showcasing a significant trove for the first time.
The National Archaeological Museum in Madrid has launched the “Treasures of Tomales” exhibition, as announced in a press release.
These coins were uncovered during a construction project in Tomales, Spain, back in 2016, and the collection boasts over 50,000 coins.
Dating from the late 3rd century to the early 4th century, the coins reflect a crucial period.
According to the museum, “the so-called treasure of Tomales was discovered by chance during construction work at Saudin Olive Grove Park in Seville,” as noted in a statement from May.
Further investigation indicated that the site corresponds to ancient Roman Seville, specifically to an olive estate once known as Hisparis.
Nineteen amphoras were discovered at the site, three of which are now on display.
One amphora is broken while the other two remain sealed with coins inside.
The museum added that “the third is fragmented and will be displayed alongside 2,800 coins that were found within.”
To enrich the historical context, the exhibition includes a selection of coins from that era, including a bronze piece with a silver surface that belongs to nine emperors who ruled during this time.
This collection is touted as the largest assortment of Roman coins found in Spain, and it’s among the largest in the world.
Photos from the exhibition capture ancient coins that have spilled from cracked amphoras.
A closer look at some coins reveals their age, with rust evident, yet the images on them can still be faintly made out.
The museum described this remarkable collection as offering essential insights into the economic, social, and political dynamics of the 4th century, a time that marked the resolution of the crisis experienced during the third century.
Spain, or Hispania as it was known in Roman times, played a significant role in the empire, providing valuable mineral resources and serving as a strategic point during the Roman conflicts with Carthage.
In a related discovery last year, archaeologists uncovered what is believed to be the oldest wine bottle in the world at an ancient Roman burial site in southern Spain.
