Spanish Treasure Worth $1 Million Discovered Off Florida Coast
Treasure hunters recently discovered over 1,000 silver and gold coins, valued at $1 million, from a 310-year-old Spanish shipwreck off Florida's Atlantic 'Treasure Coast', offering historical insights.
Overview
Treasure hunters and divers recently discovered over 1,000 silver and gold coins, including "pieces of eight," valued at approximately $1 million, off Florida's Atlantic coast.
These valuable coins originated from Spanish ships carrying treasure that were tragically wrecked by a hurricane on July 31, 1715, spilling their cargo into the sea.
The recovered Spanish coins, minted in colonies like Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia, bear visible dates and mint marks, offering significant historical data for collectors and historians.
Florida law dictates that any historic artifacts or treasure found in state waters are state-owned, though excavators are permitted to conduct recovery services.
After their discovery, the 310-year-old shipwreck coins will undergo careful conservation processes before being prepared for eventual public display.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the story neutrally, focusing on factual reporting of the discovery, historical context, and legal frameworks. They avoid loaded language or biased emphasis, presenting a balanced view that includes both the excitement of the find and the regulatory aspects of salvage operations, without editorializing on the ethics of treasure hunting.
Sources (5)
FAQ
The Spanish fleet was wrecked along the east coast of Florida, from St. Lucie Inlet to Sebastian Inlet.
Over 5,000,000 pieces of eight were recovered along with gold and jewelry by the end of October 1715.
These coins provide significant historical data for collectors and historians due to their visible dates and mint marks from colonies like Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia.
History
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