These "Pieces Of Eight" or "Cobs" were recovered from the wreck of the Santa Maria de la Consolacion. This galleon was sailing from Callao, Chile when she encountered pirates. The captain intentionally ran aground and set the ship on fire on the Isla de Muerto, Ecuador to avoid stealing. Neither pirates nor the returning Spaniards were able to recover all the treasure. The eight reales offered here are from the recovery effort that took place hundreds of years later. These reales were struck at the Potosi mint and are of the pillar and waves style. These coins circulated widely throughout the world and are the forefathers of the U.S. Silver Dollar!
Each comes with a pictured certificate of authenticity. Sizes and shapes will vary as all of these coins were handmade. A few years ago we saw similar coins being sold in the Key West shops for $750.00!