Lost to the depths of the Gulf of Mexico in 1784, El Cazador was a Spanish brig loaded with silver meant to stabilize the ailing economy of Spanish Louisiana. When the ship vanished, so too did a fortune—until centuries later, its treasure was recovered from the seabed. This pendant features one of those rare coins: a 1783 one-half real, minted in Mexico City during the reign of King Carlos III.
The coin bears the proud likeness of Carlos III on its obverse, surrounded by the Latin inscription CAROLUS III DEI GRATIA—“Charles III, by the Grace of God”—and dated 1783. On the reverse, the crowned arms of the House of Bourbon rest between the Pillars of Hercules, the ancient gateway to the New World. The legend HISPAN ET IND REX proclaims Spain’s dominion over its far-flung territories, both in Europe and the Americas.
This remarkable piece of maritime history is cradled in a handcrafted sterling silver bezel, accented with elegant touches of 14K gold—a tribute to its royal and oceanic origins. Weighing 1.7 grams, the coin is a tangible link to a pivotal moment in colonial trade and empire.
Product Description:
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Coin Type: Hand Milled
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Denomination: One-Half Real
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Mint: Mexico City
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Empire: Spanish Colonial
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Ruler: Mexico City
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Date: 1783 - Assayer FF
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Metal: Silver
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Obverse: Bust of Carlos III, King of Spain. Legend reads CAROLUS III, DEI GRATIA (by the grace of God) and the date.
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Reverse: Crowned arms of the House of Bourbon between the Pillars of Hercules. Legend reads HISPAN ET IND (Hispania & the Indies), REX (King), mint mark, denomination and assayer.
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Setting: Handcrafted sterling silver bezel with 14K gold accents.
- Note: Chain may be purchased separately.
Certificate of Authenticity with photo specific images included.
Inv# MD1654
