FISHER COA PCGS DATED 1618 BOLIVIA 8 REALES ATOCHA 1622 SHIPWRECK PIRATE SILVER

Description: The shipwreck represents one of the most famous underwater treasure discoveries in history, recovered in 1985 by Mel and Deo Fisher, legendary treasure hunters. This coin was part of their personal collection, and it comes with its original Fisher tag and photo-certificate (96A-20239). Having been auctioned at Guernsey’s in August 2015 (lot 92), this piece not only reflects the opulence and ambitions of the Spanish Empire but also connects to modern-day treasure hunting lore, embodying both the historical and the fantastical. It’s a tangible reminder of the empire's global reach, the perilous journeys of treasure fleets, and the enduring allure of sunken riches. Prepare to be amazed by this incredible piece of history: a 1618 Potosí cob 8 reales, minted under the reign of King Philip III of Spain. At the time, the Spanish Empire was the most powerful global force, yet it was also grappling with severe economic strain. The empire’s vast territories required constant financing, and silver coins like this one, minted from the rich silver mines of Potosí, were the lifeblood of Spain’s economy. This coin is marked with the rare denomination "o-8," a fascinating deviation from the traditional Roman numeral system that was briefly abandoned in the early 1600s and wouldn't reappear until 1629. Philip III's reign (1598–1621) was a period of both splendor and decline. While the empire continued to expand, it was plagued by political corruption and fiscal crises. The massive influx of silver from the New World, ironically, led to inflation and economic instability back in Spain. Yet these coins fueled the empire’s military ambitions and global trade, cementing Spain’s role in the early modern economy. Weighing 21.39 grams, this particular 8 reales coin boasts a clear and bold "18" in the date, a fully visible mintmark PxT, and an intricate cross and shield design. Although the edges show some corrosion from its centuries beneath the sea, its overall preservation is impressive, enhanced by a rich natural toning. This treasure comes from the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, the Spanish galleon that sank in 1622 during a hurricane off the coast of Key West, Florida, while carrying a fortune in silver, gold, and jewels from the Americas.xx

Price: 4450 USD

Location: La Jolla, California

End Time: 2024-10-24T02:14:14.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD