Roman gold hoard of Xàbia

Researchers recovered 53 Roman coins from the late Roman period around the 4th and 5th century AD, consisting of coins depicting Valentinian I (3), Valentinian II (7), Theodosius I (15), Arcadius (17), Honorius (10), and an unidentified coin. The team also discovered nails, in addition to deteriorated lead remains which may belong to a sea chest the coins were in. The find illustrates a historical moment of extreme insecurity with the violent arrival of barbarians (Suevi, Vandals and Alans) in Hispania and the final end of the Roman Empire in the Iberian Peninsula from 409 AD. Experts suppose the coins were intentionally hidden to avoid looting.

Divers off the coast of Spain uncovered 8 gold coins while free diving. Authorities stepped in after being called. Valentinian I: ruled for 3 years from 364–375 AD.

Valentinian II ruled for 7 years from 375–392 AD. Theodosius I ruled for 15 years (379–394 AD). Arcadius for 17 years between 395–408 AD. Honorius ruled for 10 years btween 393–403 AD as co-ruler. The coins shed light on a historical moment of insecurity with the arrival of barbarians, such as the Suevi, Vandals, and Alans, leading to the fall of the Roman Empire.