The Rarest Gem of the 1715 Fleet Shipwreck: A Stunning Artifact from Philip V's Spain
Among the treasures unearthed from the legendary 1715 Fleet shipwreck, a remarkable find has surfaced—a coin that stands as the FINEST KNOWN example of its kind, with only six (6) pieces known to exist. This extraordinary artifact embodies the artistry and historical significance of early 18th-century Spain during the reign of King Philip V.
This coin is a showstopper, boasting a stunning honey-gold patina that shimmers with an almost ethereal glow. Its intricate crown design and fully legible legends are exceptionally well-preserved—a rarity for coins recovered from the depths of the ocean. Perhaps most captivating is the presence of original coral encrustations, a silent testament to its centuries-long slumber beneath the waves.
Adding to its allure is a feature that collectors and historians alike will marvel at: the Full Double Cross at the 12 o’clock position above the Cross of Jerusalem. Such a detail is not only aesthetically striking but also an emblem of the coin's spiritual and cultural resonance in its time. Unlike other examples, this Pop Top coin shows no evidence of doubling or wear, a remarkable feat that cements its place as a leader in condition and historical fidelity.
A Comparative Triumph: Outshining Its Peers
This newly surfaced treasure has been evaluated alongside its closest rival, an NGC-graded AU 62 specimen. The results are definitive: this coin surpasses the earlier find in both preservation and detail, earning its rightful place as the finest of its kind. The sharpness of its strike, the absence of significant wear, and its overall visual appeal make it an unparalleled example of 1715 Fleet coins.
A Glimpse Into Philip V’s Spain
The coin's origins trace back to a tumultuous yet formative era in Spanish history. King Philip V, the first Bourbon ruler of Spain, ascended the throne in 1700, ushering in a period of significant change. His reign was marked by the War of Spanish Succession (1701–1714), which not only defined the geopolitics of Europe but also directly influenced the Spanish colonies in the Americas. The 1715 Fleet itself was part of Spain's efforts to transport immense wealth from the New World to support the monarchy's ambitions. Tragically, the fleet fell victim to a devastating hurricane off the coast of Florida, scattering its riches across the ocean floor.
This coin serves as a tangible link to the opulence and ambition of Philip V’s reign. Its exceptional preservation allows us to appreciate the craftsmanship of Spanish mints and the enduring legacy of a king who reshaped the course of Spanish history.
An Artifact for the Ages
For collectors and historians, this Pop Top coin is more than just an object; it is a narrative frozen in time. Its beauty, rarity, and historical depth make it a cornerstone for anyone passionate about shipwreck coins or the grandeur of Spain's colonial past. With its unparalleled condition and provenance, this coin is not just a treasure—it’s a masterpiece.31