Treasure Hunters Discover $1M in Silver and Gold Coins Off Florida Coast
A team of divers from the shipwreck salvage company 1715 Fleet-Queens Jewels LLC has uncovered a treasure trove of silver and gold coins worth an estimated $1 million off the Atlantic coast of Florida. The discovery was made this summer, with over 1,000 coins thought to be minted in Spanish colonies now located in Bolivia, Mexico, and Peru.
According to the 1715 Fleet Society, the fortune was being transported back to Spain when a hurricane wrecked the fleet's ships on July 31, 1715. The salvage company announced the discovery this week, with dates and mint marks still visible on some of the recovered coins.
"This is an incredible find for historians and collectors," said John Morris, president of 1715 Fleet-Queens Jewels LLC. "The fact that we can still see the dates and mint marks on these coins provides a unique opportunity to learn more about the past."
The discovery has significant economic implications for the region. The treasure coast, as it is known, has long been a popular destination for tourists and treasure hunters alike. The find is expected to boost local economies through increased tourism and revenue from coin sales.
Market analysts predict that the value of the coins will appreciate over time due to their historical significance and rarity. "These coins are not only valuable but also hold immense cultural and historical importance," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a numismatist at the University of Miami. "Their discovery is a significant addition to our understanding of the past."
The salvage company plans to auction off the coins in the coming months, with estimates suggesting that they could fetch between $500,000 to $1 million. The proceeds will be split among the salvage company and local authorities.
In related news, the 1715 Fleet Society has announced plans to establish a museum dedicated to the history of the shipwreck and its treasures. The museum will provide a permanent home for the coins and other artifacts recovered from the wreck site.
As the discovery continues to make headlines, experts warn that it may also attract more treasure hunters to the area, potentially leading to increased competition for existing salvage companies. "This find highlights the importance of responsible treasure hunting practices," said Morris. "We must ensure that our activities do not harm the environment or disrupt local ecosystems."
The recovery and sale of the coins are expected to be closely watched by collectors, historians, and market analysts alike. As one of the most significant discoveries in recent years, it will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the world of numismatics and beyond.
In summary:
A team of divers from 1715 Fleet-Queens Jewels LLC has uncovered over 1,000 silver and gold coins worth an estimated $1 million off the Atlantic coast of Florida.
The discovery is believed to be part of a Spanish fleet that was wrecked in 1715 during a hurricane.
The coins are expected to fetch between $500,000 to $1 million at auction.
The salvage company will split the proceeds with local authorities.
A museum dedicated to the history of the shipwreck and its treasures is planned for establishment.
*Reporting by Theguardian.*
