Lot 967

Previous image preload Next image preload

Description:

Atocha shipwreck coins 16th/17th century, Spanish .999 silver coins, special issue limited edition set 42/375 commemorating the 375th Anniversary of the 1622 Spanish Fleet, in fitted case. (cased set)

Provenance: Columbia, South Carolina private collection.

Other Notes: Nuestra Senora de Atocha was the most famous of a fleet of Spanish ships that sank in 1622 off the Florida Keys while carrying copper, silver, gold, tobacco, gems, jewels, jewelry and indigo from Spanish ports at Cartagena, Colombia, Porto Bello in New Granada and Havana, bound for Spain. The ship was named for the parish of Atocha in Madrid.

An unfortunate series of complications kept the Atocha in Veracruz before she could rendezvous in Havana with the vessels of the Terra Firme (Mainland) Fleet. After still more delays in Havana, what was ultimately a 28-ship convoy did not manage to depart for Spain until September 4, 1622, six weeks behind schedule.

On September 6, the Atocha was driven by a severe hurricane onto the coral reefs near the Dry Tortugas, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) west of Key West. With her hull badly damaged, the vessel quickly sank, drowning everyone on board except for three sailors and two slaves.

The Atocha wreck and its motherload of treasure were finally discovered on July 20, 1985 by Mel Fisher and his dive crew. The salvaged coins, both gold and silver, were minted primarily between 1598 and 1621, although numerous earlier dates were represented too, some of the dates extending well back into the 16th century. Many of the dates and coin types of the period had been either rare or unknown prior to the salvage of the wreck.

    Condition:
  • *** Notice to bidders: The absence of a condition report does not imply that an object is free of defects or restoration. All lots are sold 'As Is' and in accordance with the Conditions of Sale. Condition reports and additional photographs are provided by request as a courtesy to our clients. Condition reports are not to be considered substitutes for physical examination by you and/or your advisors. Charlton Hall's specialists are not trained professional conservators or restorers; we urge you to inspect each lot yourself or have your agent do so on your behalf. Prospective buyers should satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charlton Hall Galleries, Inc., or its specialists is merely a subjective opinion, notwithstanding written reports or any discussion concerning condition in this catalogue. Prospective buyers should bear in mind that these reports will not disclose any imperfections which may only be revealed during the course of subsequent restoration and/or repair. Buyers are reminded that Charlton Hall Galleries' warranties with respect to property are limited as set forth in our Conditions of Sale and do not extend to condition. Condition reports are provided by request on a 'first come, first served' basis. Requests submitted close to or during the auction may not be completed.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Money Order / Cashiers Check, Other, Wire Transfer

Shipping

CHARLTON HALL DOES NOT SHIP: Charlton Hall will be pleased to provide a list of shippers and packers that will our worldwide base of clients has successfully used, or you can have your own shipper handle your purchases. Please contact the shipper of your choice to arrange for packing and pick up your items. Your items will be released as soon as payment cleans our bank. We requests that your shippers schedule pick up times at least 24 hours in advance, this will insure no delays in pick up, and release of your purchases. SUCCESSFUL ONLINE BIDDERS/BUYERS MAY NOT PICKUP PURCHASES UNTIL MONDAY AFTER THE AUCTION.

June 17, 2012 1:00 PM EDT
West Columbia, SC, US

Charlton Hall

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 20% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $4,999 $200
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 + $5,000