My Adventure in ‘Four Legged Fridays’: Collecting Coins with Furry Creatures
June 26, 2025My Adventures Collecting Vintage Southern Comfort Zodiac Good Luck Tokens
June 26, 2025
I’ve always been fascinated by the romance and mystery of shipwreck coins, and this week’s scorching weather got me thinking about storms, lost fleets, and the treasures hidden beneath the waves. Inspired by the allure of sunken silver and gold, I decided to dive into my own collection and share some insights that might spark your numismatic passions.
The Story Behind El Cazador: An Affordable Treasure
My journey started with the Spanish brig El Cazador (meaning ‘The Hunter’), which sank in the Gulf of Mexico in 1784. Back in the 1770s, Spain’s Louisiana Territory was drowning in worthless paper money, so King Carlos III sent the ship loaded with around 450,000 Spanish reales—mostly 8-reales ‘Pieces of Eight’—to stabilize the economy. That’s a whopping 37,500 pounds of silver! I chose a 2-reales coin from this wreck as a budget-friendly alternative to the pricier 1715 fleet coins. It’s incredible how these pieces, recovered in 1993 by a trawler off New Orleans, now connect us to history through organizations like the Franklin Mint.
Other Shipwreck Finds in My Collection
Beyond El Cazador, I’ve come across some remarkable coins from different wrecks. For instance, I own an Australian gold sovereign from the 1882 RMS Duoro shipwreck. Struck at the Sydney Mint in 1877, this ‘Shield’ type sovereign was part of the cargo when the ship sank off Cape Finisterre. Salvaged in the 1990s from 1,500 feet deep, it’s certified by PCGS (cert. #49106726) and astoundingly well-preserved despite over a century underwater. I also recall handling an 8-reales cob from the 1682 Johanna wreck off South Africa, though I no longer have it—a reminder to cherish these finds while you can!
Practical Collecting Tips and Market Insights
Based on my experiences, here are some key takeaways for fellow collectors:
- Affordability and Alternatives: If high-value wrecks like the 1715 fleet are out of reach, focus on accessible options like El Cazador coins. They offer rich history without breaking the bank.
- Grading and Preservation Shipwreck coins can vary wildly in condition. Look for certifications from PCGS or NGC—my Duoro sovereign is a prime example of how proper salvage can yield Mint State gems. Always store them in acid-free holders to prevent corrosion.
- Market Observations: Keep an eye on auctions; for instance, similar Duoro coins have appeared in Heritage sales (like Lot 30083 from August 2024). Prices for authenticated wrecks are rising, so buy from reputable dealers to avoid fakes.
Fun Treasures and Community Spirit
It’s not all about coins—I’ve seen gold nuggets from California Gold Rush shipwrecks, coral-encrusted displays with reales, and even tokens that tell their own tales. And who doesn’t love a good giveaway? I’m excited about chances to win Admiral Gardner shipwreck coins, which add a thrilling element to collecting. Whether it’s an old receipt from the Real Eight Gallery or a unique display, every piece feels like a treasure in its own right.
I’d love to hear about your sunken coin adventures—share your stories and finds to keep this Treasure Ship Tuesday spirit alive!
