Chapter One
Spanish Colonial Coins
From the Wrecks of the Treasure Galleons

1672 One Reale

This coin has only center detail due to the uneven thickness of the planchet during the minting
process. The center of this cob was thicker than the outer edges which resulted in a centered
image by the impression of the die.

1751 One Reale

The thick cross and "chunky" planchet of this cob helps to identify it's mint of origin, Potosi,
Bolivia. The obverse side of the cob (on right) has been double-struck.

1745 One Reale

This coin shows some evidence of ocean wear. Although it has lost very little weight it has
lost some of it's detail. Many coins exposed to the elements of the sea and shifting sands
become unrecognizable.

1654 Two Reale

This Two Reale coin is dated three times, once on the reverse (left) and twice on the
obverse (right). Notice how the 5 could immediatly pass for a 7 without a careful examination.
The 5 is most visible between the pillars on the obverse side at the center.

1738 Pillar Dollar

The date on this specimen was re-stamped over the original 1737 date. This coin was recovered
from the Hollandia wrecked off Scilly Isles, England in 1743. Notice the even grooves on the sides
of the coin. These coins were minted in this fashion to prevent "scraping" or removal of silver from the
coin which was often practiced with earlier cobs.

Last updated December 29, 1997

Copyright ©1997 The Buccaneer Trading Company