Historic '1715 Treasure Fleet' Coins Discovered Off Florida Coast
A significant discovery has been made off the coast of Florida, with a team of salvors recovering a substantial number of coins from the wreckage of the legendary '1715 Treasure Fleet'. The fleet, which sank in 1715, was carrying a fortune in gold, silver, and jewelry, much of which remains undiscovered to this day.
The salvors unearthed 1,051 silver reales and five gold escudos from the wreckage. These coins, minted in Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia, bear visible dates and mint marks, providing tangible links to the people of the Spanish Empire's Golden Age. The recovery of these coins is considered rare and extraordinary, given that the coins were likely held together in a single chest when the fleet sank, contributing to their preservation. The wreckage of the fleet spans an area of roughly 50 miles along the Florida coast, with many treasures still waiting to be discovered. The team's efforts have shed new light on this historic event and the lives of those who were aboard the fleet.
The discovery of these coins is a testament to the enduring allure of the '1715 Treasure Fleet' and the ongoing efforts to uncover its secrets. The salvors' work has not only recovered a significant piece of history but has also provided valuable insights into the lives of those who were aboard the fleet. As the wreckage of the fleet continues to yield its treasures, it serves as a reminder of the rich history that lies beneath the waves off the coast of Florida.