This extraordinary 1681 La Consolacion Shipwreck Coin Pendant is a true piece of maritime history, recovered from the ill-fated Consolacion, which sank off the coast of Santa Clara, Ecuador, in a desperate bid to avoid capture by the notorious pirate Bartholomew Sharp. The ship’s captain chose to burn the treasure-laden vessel rather than surrender it, leaving behind a legend of lost riches that lay submerged for centuries. This hand-struck eight reales coin, now custom set in 14K gold, carries the weight of that story, making it a captivating treasure to wear.
On the obverse, vertical lines symbolizing the Pillars of Hercules stand tall, representing Spain's global ambitions beyond the Straits of Gibraltar. Beneath the pillars, waves depict the vast Atlantic Ocean. The partial date "16X6" along with the assayer’s mark "E" can still be seen, connecting this coin to the Potosi mint and the era of Spanish colonial dominance. The reverse displays a beautifully defined Potent Jerusalem Cross, flanked by the lions of Leon and the castles of Castile, signifying the power and unity of Spain’s empire.
Weighing 19.2 grams and approximately the size of a silver dollar, this handcrafted 14K gold setting showcases the coin’s historical significance while adding a touch of modern elegance. The La Consolacion shipwreck coin is not only a rare piece of treasure but a wearable relic, steeped in the lore of pirates, lost fortunes, and the Spanish Empire’s reach.
Product Description:
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Coin Type: Hand Struck Cob
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Denomination: Eight Reales
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Mint: Potosi
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Empire: Spanish Colonial
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Ruler: Philip IV or Charles II
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Date: 1652-1679 - Assayer E, Erqueta
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Metal: Silver
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Weight: 19.2 grams
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Obverse: Vertical lines represent the Pillars of Hercules that stand on either side of the Straits of Gibraltar at the entrance to the Mediterranean. The waves below represent the Atlantic Ocean. First line has assayer mark "E". Second line has partial "PLVS VLTRA" (translates to "more beyond") and third line has partial date of 16X"6".
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Reverse: Potent Jerusalem Cross. The cross symbolized the close bond of Church and State. The lions of Leon and the castles of Castile in the quadrants represent the home regions of Queen Isabella of Spain. Mint mark and assayer mark visible.
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Setting: Handcrafted in 14K gold.
Certificate of Authenticity with photo specific images included. BONUS- History of the shipwreck is also provided. Chain sold separately.
Inv# T 21185
