Bellevue 425-454-1283 · Lynnwood 425-672-2646 · Issaquah 425-392-0450 · Tacoma 253-328-4014
Back in June of 2015, Eric Schmitt and his family made an unthinkable discovery of over $1.5 million in coins and various artifacts later determined to be those of a sunken Spanish fleet. Heading to Spain from Havana, Cuba, the fleet compiled of 11 ships were caught and eventually succumbed to a hurricane. Each ship contained a number of jewels and coins, most notably the Queens Jewels and an undetermined amount of tricentennial coins, one of which was recovered during this dive and had remained in perfect condition. The crew and cargo would remain at the bottom of the Atlantic for the next 300 years.
On July 30, William Bartlett and his crew, comprised of 2 other men, set out for the day in the same region as Schmitt. Upon setting out that morning, they had no idea they would discover 350 coins totaling in $4.5 million from the same fleet dating back to the Spanish colonial era. Exciting and extraordinary to say the very least!
Of the recovered 18th century currency, nine Royal 8 Escudos were discovered, each piece having a value of up to $5000. It is believed that only 20 pieces are known to exist and for Bartlett to recover the nine in which he did is nothing short of amazing.
The Royal 8 went into production around 1732 and came to an end around 1760. Much of the information surrounding this coin is that it was originally struck in Mexico during the reign of Philip V. Size, weight, gold or silver were the determinates of denomination while the coin was in circulation and even in modern day appraisal.
The Summer of 2015 has proven to be exceptionally fruitful for treasure hunters along the Florida coast. With so much left to be discovered and returned to the surface, it is easy to assume many are anxious to see what this region has left laying in her quarters.
At Bellevue Rare Coins we buy bullion coins, as well sell gold and rare coins in Seattle, WA. Stop by today with your collection for a free appraisal.