Treasure Ship Tuesday: My Dive into Numismatic Finds from Sunken Treasures

There’s something magical about shipwreck coins—those silver and gold pieces lost to the sea, then surfacing centuries later with stories etched in their metal. I caught the bug years ago, and today I’m sharing my journey through treasure ship numismatics, along with some hard-won tips from my collecting adventures.

The Allure of El Cazador

My obsession began with the El Cazador, a Spanish brig that vanished in the Gulf of Mexico in 1784. King Carlos III had loaded it with about 450,000 silver reales—mostly those iconic “Pieces of Eight”—to prop up Louisiana’s economy. The ship simply disappeared until 1993, when a fishing trawler snagged coins dated 1783. For collectors like us, El Cazador pieces offer an affordable gateway into shipwreck history, unlike pricier 1715 Fleet treasures. My advice? Start with certified examples from trusted sources—I’ve had good luck with Franklin Mint issues that won’t empty your wallet.

Notable Shipwreck Finds I’ve Encountered

Beyond El Cazador, I’ve handled some fascinating recoveries that showcase the variety out there:

• Johanna (1682): Spanish cobs from this South African wreck whisper tales of early trade routes, though they’re scarce as hen’s teeth now.
• RMS Duoro (1882): This one’s personal for me—an 1877 Sydney sovereign that spent 115 years on the Atlantic floor. When I saw PCGS grade it Mint State (cert. #49106726), I couldn’t believe how crisp it looked after all that time. Salvagers pulled 28,000 coins in the 90s, including rare Brazilian pieces that still make auction jaws drop—check Heritage #3118, Lot 30083 for reference.
• Admiral Gardner: These often pop up in giveaways or presentation booklets—a perfect starter piece I’ve recommended to new collectors.
• Other Treasures: From Gold Rush nuggets to coral-crusted reales, each artifact tells its own story. I always look for provenance like Real Eight Gallery receipts—it’s your best proof of authenticity.

Practical Tips for Collecting Shipwreck Coins

Here’s what I’ve learned from years of hunting these underwater relics:

• Start Small: Try El Cazador or Admiral Gardner coins before chasing rarer wrecks. Auctions and promotions often offer affordable entry points.
• Certification is Key: Stick with PCGS or NGC slabs—they verify condition and origin. That RMS Duoro sovereign taught me how preservation matters: careful salvage can yield astonishing details.
• Market Smarts: Track auction houses like Heritage for shipwreck lots. Historical premiums add up, so set budgets. I’ve built half my collection through giveaways and careful bidding.
• Preservation Matters: Use acid-free holders, especially for coins with salt damage or encrustation. Ocean-touched metal needs extra TLC.

Why These Coins Captivate Me

These aren’t just coins—they’re physical connections to history’s dramatic moments, from economic collapses to maritime disasters. Every piece I’ve held feels like holding time itself. Whether it’s a worn real or a gleaming sovereign, each has a story that gives me chills. If you’re starting this journey, show me your finds! We collectors know that thrill of discovery—it’s like finding buried gold. Here’s to your next great find!