<P> Las arras, or Las arras matrimoniales (English: arrhae, wedding tokens, or unity coins) are wedding paraphernalia used in Christian wedding ceremonies in Spain, Latin American countries, and the Philippines . The tradition is also followed, with varying names and customs, in countries and communities bearing degrees of Hispanic influence . Traditionally, in Spain and Latin America, it is made up of thirteen gold coins presented in an ornate box or chest; in the Philippines, it is in an ornate basket or pouch . After being blessed by a priest, they are given or presented by the groom to the bride . </P> <P> The word arras is a Spanish word meaning "earnest money", "bride price", or "bride wealth". The custom of using coins in weddings can be traced to a number of places including Spain and Rome . The book An Introductory Dictionary of Theology and Religious Studies claims that origin of arras was from gold rings or coins in Visigothic Law . Whereas the Sex and Society claims the practice emerged from Frankish marriage ceremonies . The ancient Roman custom includes the act of breaking gold or silver equally into two pieces . This signifies the promise to marry by two individuals . The Spanish tradition of Mozarabic origin does not include treating the set of coins as a representation of the bridal dowry or a way of hastening prosperity . </P>

What does the coins mean in a wedding
find me the text answering this question