Treasure hunters have struck gold—literally. They recently uncovered more than $1 million worth of Spanish gold and silver coins off Florida’s Treasure Coast. This remarkable find, announced by 1715 Fleet Queens Jewels, LLC, marks a significant recovery from a shipwreck dating back to a hurricane that occurred in 1715.
Sal Guttuso, the company’s director of operations, encapsulated the significance of the discovery, stating, “This discovery is not only about the treasure itself, but the stories it tells.” Each coin recovered offers a glimpse into the past, connecting modern treasure hunters with those who sailed the seas during the Golden Age of the Spanish Empire. The recent haul included 1,000 silver coins, known as Reales, and five gold coins, or Escudos. Finding such an amount in one recovery is no small feat and reflects the persistence and dedication of the salvage team.
The treasure hunters aboard the “M/V Just Right” have pursued this dream for years, diligently searching for remnants of the fleet struck by the hurricane. Over the course of the summer, they toiled to recover not only valuable artifacts but also the stories entwined with them. This treasure is just the tip of the iceberg. Estimates suggest that nearly $400 million in treasures from the same fleet still lie on the ocean floor, awaiting discovery.
The historical context of this find cannot be overstated. On July 31, 1715, a tempest wreaked havoc on the flotilla returning to Spain, breaking apart ships laden with gold, silver, and jewels. As Guttuso noted, the recent recovery likely came from a single chest. Many of the coins have been dated and marked from mints in Mexico, Peru, and Bolivia. Each mint marking is a key to unraveling the history surrounding the ill-fated voyage.
Guttuso emphasized the broader implications of treasure recovery, saying, “Every find helps piece together the human story of the 1715 fleet.” His commitment to preservation reflects an understanding of the artifacts’ importance beyond their monetary value. They are a tangible connection to history—something Guttuso and his team take seriously. In compliance with Florida law, he maintains rigorous records of the recovered artifacts, ensuring transparency and educational use of these items.
Thus, after each season, the salvagers report to the state, which retains 20% of the treasure for public exhibition or research. Guttuso noted, “We want to do it right,” acknowledging that these efforts ultimately benefit the people of Florida. The artifacts might one day decorate museums, allowing others to marvel at the past.
This treasure trove holds more than mere coins; it offers a direct link to a pivotal time in history. Each piece serves as a reminder of the human endeavor, the risks taken in pursuit of fortune, and the stories that remain to be told. Florida’s Treasure Coast has indeed earned its name, revealing remnants of a long-lost era that continue to fascinate those who seek them.
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