(1621-28) Mo D Mexico 8 Reales Philip IV Lucayan Beach Shipwreck VG Details

Introducing, an extraordinary piece of numismatic history! This coin stands as a resilient testament to the era of Spanish colonial coinage, having been preserved beneath the waves since its issuance during the reign of Philip IV.

The Lucayan Beach Treasure Coins, are one of only a small amount of Shipwreck finds, that can be attributed to Pirates. One of history’s most significant numismatic finds, these are 100% authentic cobs from the wreck salvage. They were minted by Spain, in Mexico for the 13 colonies. The ship transporting them was captured by pirates along with the whole Spanish fleet in 1628 and then lost at sea. Nearly 340 years later they were discovered and these, which are among the last ones available for public purchase, have not seen the light of day for decades and are fresh back from being authenticated and certified by NGC.

The Lucayan Beach Wreck was discovered August 1964 by four Americans in the waters off Freeport, Grand Bahama Island. The 4 divers conducted a water sports business based at the Lucayan Beach Hotel and the discovery was made in only 10' of water less than a mile from the hotel. This was one of the most significant finds in numismatic history. Though the mystery of the ships name was never solved, it's known that it was among the wreck of the Dutch Pirate Piet Heyn who had captured the entire Spanish Fleet at Matanzas Bay, Cuba in 1628. It's known that 2 of the captured vessels were lost at sea during their return voyage, and this is from one of those 2 ships. Piet Heyn (Pieter Pieterszoon) was a Dutch admiral and privateer for the Dutch Republic during the Eighty Years' War. Heyn was the first and the last to capture a large part of a Spanish treasure fleet which transported huge amounts of gold and silver from Spanish America to Spain.

That makes this one of only a few certified pirate treasure finds known. Most of the coins discovered were minted 1613 - 1626 in Mexico City, MX during the reign of Philip IV and bear the OMD Mint mark. A small number of additional coins found were minted during the reigns of Filipe II & III in Potosi, Bolivia & Mexico City bearing the mintmarks PR, OMA & OMP.

The metal surface of the coin presents a captivating combination of varying shades of gray, exhibiting both lighter and darker areas. These hues are a poignant reminder of the coin's storied past, likely attributed to natural oxidation or the patina it developed over centuries. Such intricate detailing offers a unique, rugged charm, marking the passage of time and the historical adventures it has endured.

With each glance, the coin's condition and nuances reveal the narrative of its maritime journey. This 8 Reales piece, also known as the "piece of eight," is more than just a collectible; it is a relic of history, echoing tales from the age of exploration and treasure fleets. Its robust gray surface color, coupled with the natural wear it has experienced, only enhances its value and allure to both seasoned collectors and history enthusiasts alike.

Experience a fragment of the past with this Mexican 8 Reales Lucayan Beach Shipwreck coin – a distinguished artifact that embodies centuries of rich, untold stories.