Atocha 1622 Shipwreck Silver Bar Slice – Approx. 10 lbs | Grade 1.0 | Five Royal Stamps | Salvaged from the Motherlode
A breathtaking artifact of maritime history, this approximately 10-pound silver bar slice originates from the legendary 1622 shipwreck of the Nuestra Señora de Atocha, Spain’s most infamous treasure galleon. Measuring a commanding 14” x 5.25” with a thickness of about ½ inch, this ingot slice bears five deeply struck royal tax stamps, certifying payment of the king’s quinto real—the mandatory 20% tribute to the Spanish Crown. Its “Factor Perfect” Grade 1.0 (on a 1.0 scale) denotes not only its extraordinary purity—marked at 2380 of 2400 carats—but also the bar’s pristine preservation, with all original foundry markings, serial numbers, and shippers’ identifications intact.
This piece was recovered during Mel Fisher’s legendary 1985 discovery of the Atocha’s "Motherlode", an event that reshaped the world of treasure hunting forever. Catalogued under TSI #85A-S895, this ingot was listed on Manifest 3011, Register Page C494, and identified as belonging to shipper J. Delgado a/c A. Bravo, as inscribed in the Archivo General de Indias in Seville. Once weighing a staggering 93 lbs 5.28 oz, the bar was meticulously sliced to preserve a lighter and more displayable format—one that still retains all the visual majesty of its full form, without the cumbersome weight. Only five or six Atocha silver bar slices like this are known to exist, making this an exceedingly rare and highly coveted piece.
Unlike many full-weight ingots (which can exceed 85 lbs and are difficult to handle or mount), this slice retains the full width and length while offering a manageable profile, ideal for private collectors or museum exhibition. The bold assayer’s scoop is clearly visible, and all five royal stamps—proof of official taxation—remain crisp and fully legible.
Included is a Photo Certificate of Authenticity from Mel Fisher’s Treasure Salvors, Inc., sealed and certified—a direct link to the team who unearthed one of the greatest shipwreck treasures of all time.