Ancient Coin Stories

The ancient city of Emerita, which today is Merida, was founded by Publius Carissius in 25 BCE. He had gained he trust of Augustus and was appointed legates of Lusitania. Using the Legions V and X – which would later become the initial inhabitants of Emerita – and VI – he was instrumental in the conquest of Asturias transmontane. The Via de la Carisa today follows the same path Carisius forged through the mountains of the Cantabrian range, and is thus named after him.

In 22 BCE, the Asturians revolted against Carisius, according to historians due to his cruelty. The uprising was quelled, but Augustus removed him from his position. Carisius minted a large number of silver coins, but also minted bronzes such as this one. The bronzes seem to be rarer.

As already mentioned, Emerita was initially populated by the Legions V and X, who are mentioned on its coins. Eventually, it became a major city and the capital of Roman Lusitania.

Today, Merida contains one of the largest archeological areas in Spain. A theater, amphitheater, and circus are all well-preserved. It also contains one of the longest Roman bridges still standing, two aqueducts, a temple to Diana, and an arch.