1625-1628 Phillip IV Mexico Silver 8 Reales (21.56g) Spice Islands / Natuna Pirate Shipwreck Coin with COA & Assayer

Coins from this wreck site are extremely rare, with only 117 ever sold to market and only 567 in existence. All of which are Spanish 8 Reales, from Mexico, Potosi, Cartagena and mints in Spain. The majority of the dates are mid 1620's but some coins extend as far back as 1580's and span three kings, Philip II, III, and IV. Furthermore, this wreck has yielded previously unknown dates and varieties which has made this a very important wreck site.

The Spice Islands wreck is a mystery whether it was actually a plate ship or merchant vessel is unclear. What is known is that when the ship became stuck and too damaged to continue on her voyage; the crew made the decision to light the ship on fire and scuttle her contents. Whether this was to spoil the victory of a ship giving chase or an attempt to signal passing vessels is unclear, though given the amount of Silver recovered from the wreck, it can be seen that the loss of this vessel was a severe economic blow to whomever she belonged to.

Due to the uniqueness of each item, please refer to the photos provided in this auction. We offer high resolution images of each item rather than a written description of condition.

This item is being shipped from the Pristine Auction warehouse.