You may have heard the phrase: “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.” This mattered even in 18th century England.

In the 1700s, William Wood, a copper and tin mine owner in England had an abundance of metal and was looking for a way to profit. Wood had heard the American colonies were experiencing a coin shortage. So being an enterprising businessman, Wood used his connection to the king’s mistress—the Duchess of Kendal—to strike a deal with King George I to supply coins to the American colonies.

Under terms of the contract, Wood could produce coins for fourteen years with not more than 300 tons of metal. For that right, Wood had to pay the King 100 pounds each year and the king’s comptroller 200 pounds each year.

Today these lovely coins with a rich history are known as the Rosa Americana coins—which is Latin for “American Rose” and these coins command a hefty price at auction on the rare occasion they surface for sale.

Perhaps in gratitude for the royal contract, the Rosa Americana coins’ obverse features King George I, facing right, with the Tudor Rose on the reverse. The obverse legend highlights the King’s name and title while the reverse legend had various forms of “ROSA AMERICANA” and “UTILE DULCI” which means “THE USEFUL WITH THE AGREEABLE.”

It was widely known that the rose was intended to flatter King George I.

It was included to praise him as a successor to the Platagenets and Tudors—despite his German origin! It is said that King George I even refused to even try to learn English. In fact, he regarded his British crown as much less important as the Hanoverian and Holy Roman Empire titles he also held.

Rosa Americana coins were minted with Bath metal, which is an alloy created from 75% brass, 20% zinc (mixed with tin and bismuth) and 5% silver. The alloy had to be heated prior to striking to keep the dies from cracking. As a result, gas bubbles formed in the metal, which resulted in the coins featuring porous surfaces.

Wood struck Halfpenny, Penny and Two Pence coins. The first Two Pence designs were undated, and the remainder of the coins he struck were dated 1722, 1723 or 1724.

Due to the metal compound, these coins were lightweight and subsequently some American merchants refused to accept the coins in trade. Because the coins were not widely accepted, Wood stopped minting coins in 1723.

In 1725 Wood gave up his patent contract and instead accepted a pension for three years. Nonetheless, his coins remained in circulation in the American colonies until the Civil War. Examples have been unearthed in parts of New England, New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Among fifty-nine coins found during the restoration of Colonial Williamsburg, two were Rosa Americana pennies dated 1722.

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George Washington, America’s first president and one of its most revered founding fathers, left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. As a true American icon, it is no surprise that his image has graced countless American coins over the centuries. From vintage pieces to modern commemoratives, the rare George Washington coin remains among the most sought-after numismatic treasures. In this article, we’ll explore the history and significance of these coins, focusing on:

• The fascinating evolution of coins with George Washington on them
• The remarkable value of select specimens
• Where to find your own rare George Washington coin online

Watch this entertaining video to see a stunning Washington coin’s value revealed:

 

What coins are George Washington on?

From the iconic quarter in your pocket to rare commemorative pieces worth thousands, George Washington’s image appears on numerous U.S. coins. While not all Washington coins are considered rare or valuable, these are some of the most historically significant and sought-after specimens that collectors eagerly seek.

1. Rare George Washington dollar coin

The 2007 George Washington dollar coin kicked off the historic Presidential Dollar Series. Featuring a bold portrait of our first president on the obverse and the Statue of Liberty on the reverse – a design shared across the entire series – this manganese-brass coin marked a new chapter in American dollar coinage.

While the George Washington Dollar is not considered particularly rare due to its modern mintage, certain rare presidential dollar coins and error varieties can command significant premiums. Basic uncirculated specimens, however, remain readily available and affordable for beginning collectors.

George Washington Dollar

• Metal: Brass
• Year: 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

2. George Washington half dollar coin

This George Washington Half Dollar, otherwise known as the 1982 George Washington 250th anniversary coin, was issued to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Washington’s birth. This 90% silver commemorative coin features a striking right-facing portrait of Washington on horseback on the obverse, while the reverse displays Mount Vernon, his historic Virginia estate.

The design, crafted by Elizabeth Jones, was the first commemorative U.S. coin created in nearly three decades. Two versions were minted: an uncirculated version made in Denver and a proof version struck in San Francisco.

While not among the rarest Washington coins, high-grade specimens of this George Washington commemorative coin, particularly the proof versions, are increasingly coveted by collectors who appreciate their historical significance and superior craftsmanship.

George Washington Half Dollar

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1982

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

3. Rare Washington quarter coin

This 1959 rare Washington quarter coin represents a cherished piece from the historic 90% silver series that ran from 1932 to 1964. Originally introduced to commemorate Washington’s 200th birth anniversary, these quarters showcase John Flanagan’s elegant design featuring the first president’s left-facing portrait on the obverse. The reverse depicts a powerful American eagle perched on arrows and an olive branch, symbolizing national defense and peace.

While millions of these Washington quarter coins were produced for circulation, their 90% silver content makes them increasingly valuable today. The 1959 specimens are particularly interesting as they represent the latter years of silver quarter production, before the 1965 switch to copper-nickel cladding. Both collectors and precious metal investors value these coins not only for their silver content but also for their historical significance as pieces of everyday American commerce from a bygone era.

90% Silver Washington Quarter

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1959
• Check our most current price here.

 

 

 

 

 

4. American Revolution bicentennial coin George Washington

The American Revolution Bicentennial George Washington Medal, also known as the George Washington Sons of Liberty coin, was minted in 1972 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution. The obverse of the medal features a detailed portrait of George Washington, while its reverse is adorned with a depiction of the Tree of Liberty, a powerful symbol of the American Revolution. The Tree of Liberty represents the resilience and freedom fought for during the war, echoing Thomas Jefferson’s famous quote about the need for liberty to be “refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants”.

Made of bronze, this medal is an important piece of exonumia. Although not rare, it holds historical significance and can be more valuable in higher grades or as part of a commemorative set from the Bicentennial.

American Revolution Bicentennial George Washington Medal

• Metal: Bronze
• Year: 1972

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

5. 1789 George Washington peace and friendship coin

Inspired by a historically significant design that dates back to the earliest days of American diplomacy, this coin has become a valued piece among collectors. The original peace medals were silver pieces given by George Washington to Native American leaders as symbols of friendship and diplomatic ties between the new United States and various tribes.

While not as rare as the original silver medals presented to tribal leaders, this 1904 bronze reproduction created by the U.S. Mint is more than a George Washington souvenir coin. It offers historians and collectors a meaningful connection to early American-Native American relations. Well-preserved pieces are particularly valued as early American diplomatic artifacts.

George Washington Indian Peace Medal

• Metal: Bronze
• Year: 1904

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by The National Museum of American History

6. George Washington 1st president coin

This brass token, created by the Scovill Manufacturing Company of Waterbury, Connecticut, honors George Washington’s legacy as the first president of the United States. Created during a period when commemorative tokens were popular promotional items, its obverse displays Washington’s bust, while the reverse features the titles “Father of His Country” and “American Fabius” along with the tribute: “FIRST IN WAR FIRST IN PEACE FIRST IN THE HEARTS OF HIS COUNTRYMEN SERVED EIGHT YEARS AS PRESIDENT WITHOUT PAY”.

Scovill, a pioneer in American industrial manufacturing, produced this token as part of a broader range of consumer goods, including buttons and political memorabilia. While not legal tender, these tokens were often distributed at celebrations, fairs, or historic events related to Washington’s legacy. Though not especially rare, this George Washington coin token is valued among collectors for its craftsmanship and connection to early American manufacturing and patriotism.

George Washington Commemorative Token

• Metal: Brass
• Year: Early 20th century

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by The National Museum of American History

7. 1797 George Washington Masonic coin

The 1797 Masonic coin with George Washington is one of the most intriguing pieces of early American medallic art, highlighting Washington’s connection to Freemasonry. This brass medal, struck during Washington’s lifetime, features his portrait on the obverse while incorporating distinctive Masonic symbols on the reverse – a testament to his role as a prominent Freemason.

While restrikes were made in later years, authentic 1797 specimens remain among the most desirable Washington medals, particularly appealing to collectors interested in both numismatics and Masonic history.

1797 Medal Washington Masonic

• Metal: Brass
• Year: 1797

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by PCGS

8. George Washington Carver coin

The Washington – Carver Half Dollar, minted from 1951 to 1954, uniquely honors two great Americans: the U.S.A.’s first president George Washington, and agricultural scientist George Washington Carver. This commemorative silver half-dollar marks the first time an African American appeared on a U.S. coin, making it a groundbreaking piece in American numismatic history. The obverse features conjoined busts of both men, symbolizing the connection between American leadership and scientific innovation.

These coins were issued to promote racial cooperation and to fund research at the Tuskegee Institute, though sales fell short of expectations. Representing another historic instance of George Washington on a coin, well-preserved specimens hold special appeal for collectors interested in civil rights history and significant American commemoratives.

Washington – Carver Half Dollar

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1951 – 1954

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

9. Washington crossing the Delaware coin

This 2021 Washington quarter coin pays homage to one of George Washington’s most iconic moments in the Revolutionary War. Made from copper-nickel, the coin’s reverse captures Washington standing at the bow of a boat, leading his troops across the icy Delaware River in 1776, a powerful symbol of bravery and determination. This design commemorates the bold action that helped turn the tide for American independence. On the obverse, Washington’s familiar profile remains, keeping continuity with the classic quarter design.

Though not considered particularly rare, this quarter marked a return to the single iconic image of Washington after years of diverse designs in the America the Beautiful series. Following the success of presidential coinage, like the John Adams presidential dollar, this design’s popularity with collectors shows the enduring appeal of our founding fathers on American coins.

Crossing the Delaware Washington Quarter

• Metal: Copper-nickel
• Year: 2021

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

10. George Washington funeral coin

The 1800 Washington Funeral medal is one of the rarest and most significant George Washington gold coins ever created. Struck in the year following Washington’s death, these solemn commemorative medals were produced to honor the passing of America’s first president.

The design features a funeral urn with “GW” inscribed, symbolizing the nation’s mourning. Original specimens were likely presented to Washington family members and distinguished citizens during memorial services.

Given its early American origins, historical significance, and precious metal content, this funeral medal represents the pinnacle of Washington numismatic collecting. The few surviving authentic examples, when they appear at auction, command exceptional premiums and intense interest from serious collectors of early American medals.

AV Medal Washington Funeral, Urn

• Metal: Gold
• Year: 1800

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by PCGS

11. 2007-W $10 Gold First Spouse CACG MS70 – Martha Washington

As the inaugural release in the First Spouse Gold Coin series, this $10 piece honors America’s first First Lady alongside her husband’s presidency. Minted at the West Point facility, coins graded MS70 by CACG, like the one below, represent the absolute pinnacle of mint perfection.

While the 1759 Martha Washington coin exists only as a rare test token created by the U.S. Mint for experimental purposes, this modern issue serves as an official tribute to her legacy. The coin’s obverse features a portrait of Martha Washington, while its reverse depicts her working with a seamstress in support of Revolutionary War soldiers.

Despite its modern mintage, perfect MS70 specimens of this historic first issue are increasingly valued by collectors, particularly those assembling complete First Spouse sets or specializing in presidential family commemoratives.

2007-W $10 Gold First Spouse CACG MS70 – Martha Washington

• Metal: Gold
• Year: 2007
• Get our most current price here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To browse through more rare pieces, beyond Washington coin specimens, click here.

Where to buy rare George Washington coins

The coins and medals featuring George Washington represent more than just currency. They are tangible pieces of American history, from historic silver issues to modern commemorative treasures. Each specimen tells its own unique story of our nation’s first president and his lasting impact on America.

Blanchard specializes in helping collectors acquire these historical pieces, and its expert team is always available to answer questions about George Washington rare coin specimens or assist in building your presidential collection. We invite you to explore these remarkable pieces of American heritage with us.

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Though often overshadowed by other famous shipwrecks, the Nuestra Señora de la Concepción is one of the most significant Spanish galleon discoveries of modern times. In 1641, this treasure-laden ship departed from Cuba only to be overtaken by a powerful hurricane, scattering its cargo across the Silver Shoals. This article delves into the rich history of the ship, with a focus on Nuestra Señora de la Concepción shipwreck coins, including:

• Intriguing historical facts about the Concepcion ship
• The remarkable Concepcion treasure uncovered among the wreckage
• The best places to buy shipwreck coins online

For a deep dive into the Concepcion shipwreck, watch this fascinating video:

The Lost Treasure of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción: A Deep Dive

 

Facts about the Concepcion ship

Often compared to the Atocha shipwreck, the Nuestra Señora de la Concepción has an equally captivating story. This section will answer the question “What happened to Concepcion ship?”. And, as we delve deeper into facts about this vessel, we will also explain how its remarkable treasure, much like the shipwreck coins Atocha produced, provides valuable cultural and economic insights into its time.

Size and appearance of the Spanish ship Concepcion

The Nuestra Señora de la Concepcion ship was a substantial 600-ton nao, i.e. a three-masted ocean-going sailing ship, that underwent significant modifications to serve as a galleon. Originally built in Havana in 1620 as a merchant vessel, it was later refitted in Spain with military and structural enhancements. These modifications transformed the merchant vessel into a formidable armed galleon capable of protecting valuable cargo.

While exact dimensions aren’t provided in historical records, its 600-ton size and galleon configuration would have made it an imposing vessel, with the high fore and aft castles characteristic of Spanish naval architecture of the time.

La Concepcion ship route

As part of the Spanish Treasure Fleet system, the Concepcion ship operated on the vital trade route between Spain and its New World territories. The ship would typically sail from Spain to Veracruz, Mexico, transporting European goods and passengers, then return with precious metals and other valuable cargo.

The vessel’s final journey began in Cadiz on April 24, 1641, as Capitana (flagship) of the New Spain Fleet. After reaching Veracruz, the ship remained there for a year before being ordered to return to Spain, this time as Almiranta (vice-flagship). The return route took it to Havana, where it made a brief stop despite needing repairs. From there, the intended route was to join the fleet’s standard path across the Atlantic back to Spain, but deteriorating conditions and poor repairs would prevent the ship from completing this final voyage.

Concepcion shipwreck 1641

After departing Havana in poor condition, the Concepción met with fierce weather that proved catastrophic. Massive waves reached the height of the stern light, forcing water through the ship’s portholes. The vessel’s integrity quickly deteriorated as the stern’s caulking began failing. The main and fore masts snapped in the tempest, and the ship lost two anchors and three boats. A desperate attempt to continue using jury-rigged sails failed when the ship struck a reef about 60 miles north of Hispaniola.

In the ensuing chaos, one longboat carrying 32 high-ranking passengers and officers, including Vice-Admiral Villavicencio, managed to escape. Others attempted survival on eight makeshift rafts constructed from ship timbers. Of the 532 people aboard, only 194 survived. Twenty-five men remained with the treasure on the reef, but only one of these ultimately survived the wreck of the Concepcion.

Concepcion shipwreck 1715

The 1641 Concepción wreck should not be confused with the 1715 Spanish Treasure Fleet disaster. This confusion sometimes arises because both events involved Spanish treasure ships and resulted in significant losses. The 1715 fleet was a separate incident where an entire Spanish treasure fleet was lost in a hurricane off Florida’s east coast, while the 1641 Concepción was a single ship that went down off Hispaniola (modern-day Dominican Republic). Both wrecks have attracted treasure-hunting expeditions, leading to conflated histories, but research on “Concepcion shipwreck 1715” will yield no relevant results.

Concepcion shipwreck location

The Concepción’s remains lie off the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, near Puerto Plata, where it struck a reef on the Silver Bank. The wreck remained lost until William Phipps’ successful salvage operation 45 years after sinking, when his team recovered over 25 tons of silver.

The site was later sought by various explorers including Korganoff in 1952, Ed Link in 1958, and Jacques Cousteau in 1968. The definitive modern rediscovery came in 1978 by Burt Webber and Jack Haskins of Seaquest International Inc., aided by Peter Earle’s discovery of the Henry sloop’s logbook from Phipps’ expedition.

The Nuestra Señora de la Concepcion shipwreck location consists of two distinct areas separated by 150 meters, identified through aerial photography of the north reef of the Silver Bank and underwater magnetometer surveys.

The most famous Concepcion coins

Among the most fascinating artifacts recovered from the Concepción wreck were thousands of silver coins, offering a remarkable snapshot of Spanish colonial coinage from the early 17th century. The recovered numismatic treasure mostly included reales dating from 1600 to 1641, minted across the Spanish Empire’s key colonial facilities in Mexico, Cartagena, Santa Fé, and Potosí.

Notably, over three-quarters of the coins were minted in the three years immediately preceding the shipwreck (1639 -1641). The coins listed below provide invaluable insights into the Spanish Empire’s monetary system and colonial trade networks during this pivotal period.

1. Felipe IV 8 Reales from the Concepcion wreck

Minted at the Mexico Mint, which was established in 1536 as the first mint in the Americas, this 8 reales coin is a significant artifact of Spanish colonial currency. Often referred to as a “pieces of eight”, these coins were one of the most widely circulated forms of currency in the Americas and international commerce, known for their consistent weight and fineness. Today, they are valued highly as rare Mexican coins.

Under King Felipe IV’s reign, the coins’ design featured the Spanish coat of arms on the obverse and the Pillars of Hercules with the motto “PLUS ULTRA” on the reverse. The unique “M” with a small cross above it, known as the Macuquin, distinguished these coins from others minted elsewhere.

Felipe IV 8 Reales

• Metal: Silver

Year: 1634-1641

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Philip IV 4 Reales from the Concepción ship

Part of the treasure of the Concepcion, this Philip IV 4 reales coin highlights the minting quality of the Mexico Mint during the 17th century. While only half as valuable as the piece of eight, this smaller denomination played a crucial role in everyday transactions in New Spain. Considered stunning coins both then and now, these pieces typically displayed clearer strikes than their South American counterparts due to the Mexico City Mint’s superior equipment and more experienced craftsmen.

Philip IV 4 Reales

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1622-1641

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

3. Cartagena Mint 4 Reales Coin from the wreck of the Concepcion

This 4 reales 1641 Concepcion shipwreck coin is particularly rare, as the minting facility it was produced by only began operations in 1621. The Cartagena Mint in Colombia was established to convert South American silver into coinage closer to the source. The Concepción coins include some of the earliest known examples from this mint, making them historically significant. Under Philip IV, these coins were struck during a period when Cartagena served as a crucial Caribbean port for the Spanish treasure fleet system.

Philip IV 4 Reales

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1627 – 1630

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Philip III 2 Reales from the Concepcion shipwreck

The Potosí 2 reales found on the Concepcion treasure ship were minted at the world’s most productive silver mint, sitting high in the Andes Mountains. During the 1630s, these coins were produced under strict quality controls implemented after the great scandal of 1617-1619, when it was discovered that coins had been debased. Assayer Juan Ximénez de Tapia oversaw production during this period, marking his coins with a distinctive “T” assayer mark. These smaller denomination coins were crucial for regional trade within the Viceroyalty of Peru and represent the reformed minting practices of the post-scandal era.

Philip III 2 Reales

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1617-1621

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Numista

5. Bolivian 8 Reales from the Nuestra señora de la Concepción shipwreck

This 8 reales coin recovered from the ship Concepcion is a testament to the Potosí Mint’s role in producing high-quality silver coins during the 17th century. These coins were minted using silver from the legendary Cerro Rico mine, known as the “mountain that eats men” due to its harsh working conditions. During Philip IV’s reign, these large silver coins showed improved quality following the mint’s reform, featuring better-centered strikes and more consistent weight than earlier issues.

Philip IV 8 Reales (Bolivia Mint)

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1622

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by NGC

To see more exceptional specimens, beyond Concepcion coins, click here.

Where to buy rare coins

The story of the Concepción is a captivating chapter in the history of Spanish colonial maritime trade and exploration. The ship’s 1641 sinking off Hispaniola, while devastating, has left an incredible cultural legacy preserved in the thousands of coins and other artifacts recovered from the wreck site over the centuries. These numismatic treasures provide unparalleled insight into the monetary systems, trade networks, and economic realities that powered Spain’s global empire during the reigns of Philip III and Philip IV. 

Those interested in acquiring rare coins, including specimens from shipwrecks, will find that Blanchard is an excellent choice. Known for its expertise in numismatics and outstanding customer service, Blanchard offers a curated selection of authentic coins of the highest quality. Blanchard’s knowledgeable team is available at all times to answer your questions about Concepcion coin value and more!

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The Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas sank in 1656, taking with it a magnificent trove of Spanish colonial wealth. Over centuries, the Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas shipwreck treasure has unveiled spectacular artifacts. These finds offer a vivid glimpse into the opulence of Spain’s Golden Age. Here, we will focus on the coins found among the wreck, highlighting:

• The historical significance of the pieces recovered from the Maravillas wreck
• The remarkable preservation state of many Maravillas coins
• Where collectors can acquire Maravillas treasure coins and more

Watch this story of the Nuestra Senora de las Maravillas come alive in this fascinating video:

Facts about the Maravillas treasure ship

During Spain’s colonial era, countless ships were lost to perilous seas, many loaded with immense riches bound for Spain from the Americas. Among these shipwrecks, the Maravillas stands out. These key facts help illustrate why this particular vessel continues to captivate our imagination.

Size and appearance of the Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas ship

The Maravillas ship was a two-deck galleon, built to impressive specifications in keeping with the grand naval architecture of 17th-century Spain. Measuring over 650 tons, the ship was designed to carry valuable cargo, as well as a sizable crew, armed with defenses against pirates and other threats common to the high seas.

The ship’s design followed the classic Spanish galleon configuration, featuring multiple decks organized to balance cargo with the heavy cannons that protected its bounty. It featured a distinctive high stern castle that rose dramatically above the main deck and three tall masts which dominated its profile. The mainmast, the tallest of the three, likely reached a height of over 100 feet above the waterline. Along the ship’s sides, gun ports lined the hull, housing bronze and iron cannons for protection.

As a royal galleon, Maravillas bore ornate carvings, intricate detailing, and gold embellishments, especially near the stern and the figurehead, a characteristic mark of Spain’s proud fleet during its Golden Age. The ship’s name, which translates to “Our Lady of Wonders” was likely displayed prominently on the stern.

Nuestra Senora de las Maravillas ship route

The Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas sailed as part of Spain’s famed treasure fleet, which followed a well-established and highly strategic route from the New World back to Spain. This fleet would typically depart from ports in Central or South America, such as Cartagena (Colombia) or Portobelo (Panama), loaded with precious metals and goods gathered from various Spanish colonies. These cargoes included silver, gold, and other valuables bound for Spain, vital to support the country’s wealth and power during its colonial period.

The galleons often traveled up to Havana, Cuba, a critical stop where ships would reassemble to form a convoy before making the long and dangerous journey back to Spain across the Atlantic. This route was designed to minimize the risk of pirate attacks and to navigate the complex currents and weather patterns of the Caribbean and Atlantic, though it remained perilous due to the presence of reefs, storms, and the threat of enemy ships.

On the Maravillas’ final voyage in 1656, it followed this route but met tragedy shortly after departing Havana. Near the Bahamas, a navigational error led to a collision with another ship in the convoy, causing extensive damage to the Maravillas. To make matters worse, the galleon drifted into a coral reef, further compromising its hull.

Despite desperate efforts to save the vessel, the Maravillas quickly sank, scattering its precious cargo across the seafloor and marking one of the most significant losses in Spanish maritime history.

Maravilla shipwreck location

The Maravilla shipwreck location is near Little Bahama Bank, a vast bank of coral and sand off Grand Bahama Island’s northern edge. The primary wreck site sits approximately 50 kilometers from the island, but the ship’s remains are not concentrated in a single location. Over centuries, storms and ocean currents spread the ship’s precious cargo across the ocean floor, scattering artifacts and treasure over miles.

This widespread dispersal pattern is similar to that of other famous Spanish colonial shipwrecks, such as the Nuestra Señora de Atocha coins discovery site in the Florida Keys, where treasures were found scattered across a vast underwater expanse. This widespread dispersal has made the wreck both challenging to locate and complex to explore.

Since it was first discovered in the early 1970s, the Maravillas has become one of the Bahamas’ most famous historical shipwreck sites. However, the wreck’s complex location has significant implications for salvage rights and archaeological oversight. Modern expeditions must navigate not only the physical challenges of the site but also strict regulatory requirements.

Maravillas shipwreck coins for sale

The Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas has yielded a fascinating assortment of artifacts. Among the discoveries are colonial silver reales and gold escudos, many in remarkable condition due to their preservation in the sandy, reef-protected seabed of the Little Bahama Bank.

Like the El Cazador wreck, whose silver coins helped document Spain’s monetary influence in colonial Louisiana, the Maravillas’ numismatic treasures offer crucial insights into colonial Spanish America’s economic systems. Here are five significant coins that showcase the diverse numismatic treasures recovered from this legendary shipwreck.

1. Philip IV 4 Reales from the Maravillas wreck

A silver 4 reales minted in 1655 during the reign of King Philip IV in what was then New Granada (modern-day Colombia), this cob-type coin represents the vast silver wealth that flowed through the Spanish colonial empire. Cob coins like this were hand-struck on irregular planchets, giving each piece its own unique character while maintaining the standard weight and silver content required by the Spanish Crown. Their survival after centuries underwater in the Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas shipwreck adds to their intrigue, capturing the fascination of treasure enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Philip IV 4 Reales

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1655

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Heritage Auctions

2. Bolivian 8 Reales from the Maravillas shipwreck

Produced in Potosí, Bolivia, this 8 reales coin from the Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas wreck is significant for its historical value and distinct craftsmanship. Hand-struck in 1650, this piece represents the height of Spanish colonial silver production, with Potosí being the most important mint in the Spanish Empire.

The 8 reales was the largest silver denomination of its time, equivalent to today’s silver dollar. Collectors prize these 8 reales for their unique shape, which combined with their proven wreck provenance, makes them compelling artifacts of Spain’s colonial empire and its vast silver trade network.

Philip IV 8 Reales (Bolivia)

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1650

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Heritage Auctions

3. Mexican 8 Reales from shipwreck Maravillas

This Mexican 8 reales coin from the Nuestra Senora de las Maravillas ship is another prized artifact of Spanish colonial history. This large silver coin, often referred to as a “piece of eight” was the primary currency of the Spanish Empire and circulated widely across Europe, Asia, and the Americas due to its consistent weight and purity.

Minted in Mexico City, one of Spain’s most significant colonial mints, renowned for processing precious metals from Mexico’s rich silver mines, these coins bear the iconic “MO” mintmark. Each coin was hand-struck, leading to subtle variations that enhance their uniqueness.

Philip IV 8 Reales (Mexico)

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1621-1656

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Heritage Auctions

4. A counterstamped coin from the Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas ship

The 7 1/2 reales counterstamped coin from the Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas treasure is a unique piece that highlights an unusual moment in numismatic history. Originally an 8 reales piece, this coin was officially reduced to 7 1/2 reales value through counterstamping, a common practice in the Spanish Empire to adjust currency values. The counterstamp, which often bore symbols or marks from the Spanish Crown, was applied to revalidate or alter the coin’s denomination in response to changing economic needs or as a quality assurance measure.

The Maravillas 7 1/2 reales is particularly rare, as coins with unusual denominations and counterstamps are less common, and tells a fascinating story of colonial Spanish monetary policy, speaking to its adaptability.

Philip IV Counterstamped 7-1/2 Reales

• Metal: Silver
• Year: 1651-1652

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Heritage Auctions

5. 2 Escudos from the Maravillas treasure ship

This 2 Escudos coin recovered from the Maravillas shipwreck treasure found in the Bahamas represents one of the highest denominations in colonial circulation. Known as a “doubloon” and distinguished by its “R” mint mark, indicating its Colombian origin, the 2 Escudos coin was among the most prestigious coins of the Spanish colonial era.

It was primarily used for large transactions, international trade, and prestigious payments within the vast Spanish Empire. The purchasing power was significant: in the 17th century, a 2 Escudos coin could buy a fine horse or support a family for several months.

Philip IV 2 Escudos

• Metal: Gold
• Year: 1627-1629

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photo by Heritage Auctions

To browse more rare coins, beyond the Maravillas shipwreck treasure, click here.

Where to buy rare coins

The Nuestra Señora de las Maravillas represents far more than just another Spanish shipwreck discovery. Its diverse cargo of colonial coinage provides crucial documentation of Spain’s complex monetary system and trade routes. The exceptional preservation of many Maravillas coins, protected by the Bahamas’ sandy banks, offers collectors specimens that surpass typical shipwreck yields in both condition and historical significance.

If these treasures inspire your interest in rare coins and historical artifacts, consider buying from Blanchard. As a trusted leader in numismatics, Blanchard offers unparalleled expertise and a curated selection of coins that capture the stories of the past. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, Blanchard’s knowledgeable team is ready to help you find exceptional pieces that enrich your collection. Contact Blanchard today for Maravillas shipwreck coins for sale and more.

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