by Vero Beach, FL – More than 1,000 gold and silver coins were recently recovered from the legendary 1715 Treasure Fleet shipwreck along Florida’s Treasure Coast, marking another significant discovery in this historic maritime saga. Valued at around $1 million, these coins shed new light on one of the most famous shipwrecks from the 1700s.
The 1715 Treasure Fleet was catastrophically struck by a hurricane on July 31, 1715, sinking its fleet along Florida’s eastern coast and sending an estimated $400 million in treasure to the ocean floor. The latest find, led by Capt. Levin Shavers and the crew of M/V Just Right under 1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels, LLC, continues nearly a century of ongoing recovery efforts.
A Glimpse into Florida’s Golden Age Shipwreck History
The coins discovered include five gold Escudos and about 1,000 silver Reales, minted in Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia. Many coins retain their original mint markings, making this find a rare and extraordinary resource for historians and collectors alike.
- The coins appear to have come from a single chest or shipment, which spilled into the sea as the ship was destroyed by the hurricane’s force.
- Prior to public display, the coins will undergo careful conservation to preserve their historical and monetary value.
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“This discovery is not only about the treasure itself, but the stories it tells,” said Sal Guttuso, director of operations for 1715 Fleet – Queens Jewels. “Each coin is a piece of history, a tangible link to the people who lived, worked, and sailed during the Golden Age of the Spanish Empire.”
Preserving History for Future Generations
The recovery team reported that many coins are in remarkable condition, making this find essential for learning more about maritime trade and colonial history. According to Guttuso, “Every find helps piece together the human story of the 1715 fleet. We are committed to preserving and studying these artifacts so future generations can appreciate their historical significance.”
Plans are in motion to exhibit select pieces at local museums, providing both locals and tourists with a unique opportunity to experience a tangible connection to Florida’s rich maritime past.
The Legacy of the 1715 Treasure Fleet and Ongoing Discoveries
The disaster that struck the 1715 Treasure Fleet remains one of the most fabled maritime tragedies in history. Historians estimate that the treasure lost—including gold, silver, and precious artifacts—could be worth up to $400 million. Over nearly 100 years, pieces from this fleet have been discovered repeatedly, piecing together stories from the Spanish Golden Age.
For further details on the ongoing salvage efforts and to view photos of the recent coin recovery, visit FOX Weather’s report.
What’s Next for the Treasure Coast?
- Continued exploration and salvage expeditions to locate additional artifacts.
- Conservation and preservation projects ensuring the longevity of recovered treasures.
- Museum exhibits and educational programs to share this rich history.
What do you think about this extraordinary discovery? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
